Leading housing and homelessness charity Shelter Scotland is urging Aberdeenshire residents to have their say on housing issues in the region.

The call comes following the launch of an online consultation by Aberdeenshire Council on its draft Local Housing Strategy 2012-2017.

The council is seeking feedback from residents on the draft strategy which deals with all aspects of housing and related issues, including affordable housing, homelessness, fuel poverty, private rented accommodation and housing for older people.

Shelter Scotland says 1,232 families and individuals were assesses as homeless across Aberdeenshire last year. Meanwhile 6,202 households are on the waiting list for a home with only 847 new lets available in 2010-2011. According to the charity this means it would take seven years to clear the waiting list.

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With such stark statistics, Shelter Scotland says the consultation is a good opportunity for residents to shape the future of housing in their local area and make a real difference.

Martin Wilkie-McFarlane, National Services Manager at Shelter Scotland, said: “This is a good opportunity for local residents to have their say on issues that affect us all.

“Recent research shows that an affordable, decent and safe home is one of the top priorities for families and individuals in Scotland. For that reason I would encourage local residents to have their say and help shape the future of housing in the area. After all, housing is an issue that affects everyone in our society.

“We want local authorities and the Scottish Government to make housing a top priority to ensure there is enough secure and affordable housing for the people of Scotland, regardless of whether they own or rent their home.”

(GK)