New figures have revealed that new houses built on sites in Fife, of more than four units, was 852 in 2012/13.

This is the first increase in completions on sites of this size since 2007/08.

In the last year, the number of new affordable houses constructed in Fife rose by 49%, while 285 affordable homes were completed this year, compared to the previous year of 191 units.

Private completions remained the same over the period, with the private housing market having 567 completions during 2013/13, compared to 573 last year.

Councillor Lesley Laird, Executive Member for Business, Enterprise, Economy and Planning said: "These figures are very welcome and this is a positive message for Fife's economy. However, we will not become complacent and will continue to work with partners and the private sector and to enable innovative projects, and to reduce barriers to appropriate development to ensure that we can see confidence returning to Fife's housing market."

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David Ross, Fife Council's Depute Leader and Executive Member for Housing, added: "These figures emphasize why increased investment in housing by the Council is important. With private sector completions relatively static, not only is the Council tackling the high level of housing need in Fife, but we are also helping to create much needed local jobs.

"The construction industry in Fife has been hit hard by the down turn in house building and there is still a long way to go to rebuild the industry locally. I am confident that completions will continue to rise in future years as the Council heads towards the ambitious target of providing 2,700 new affordable homes with its partners over a five year period."

(JP/MH)