According to a new report, there is a "very healthy supply" of land available in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire for the construction of new homes.

The 2014 Housing Land Audit identified land for almost 50,000 homes across the area – a 172% increase since 2011.

It is thought build-rates are forecast to return to pre-recession levels this year, and then reach record levels for at least the next six years.

Welcoming the report, Councillor Ramsay Milne, Chair of the SDPA, said: "Scottish Government planning policy dictates that a minimum effective supply of five years' worth of land should be maintained at all times. The Housing Land Audit shows that we have considerably more than that available.

-- Advertisement --

"The five year effective supply across the whole area has increased by 6% from last year. This increase reflects the progress being made in bringing forward allocated sites from the two Local Development Plans.

"More than 3,300 homes are expected to be built next year in Aberdeen City and Shire – a level not seen since current records began in 1981. This is reflective of the economic growth being experienced by the area and the fact that it is an excellent place to live and do business."

Councillor Peter Argyle, Vice-chair, added: "Both Aberdeen City and Shire councils have up-to-date Local Development Plans and are now reviewing these in line with the Strategic Development Plan. This is a significant achievement, with Aberdeen City and Shire being the only city region with a fully up-to-date development plan."

Strategic Development Plan manager David Jennings commented: "With up-to-date strategic and local development plans, the area is well placed to meet the challenges of a growing population and dynamic economy.

"There is probably no area in the whole of the UK which can evidence such a healthy position – a combination of a fast-growing economy and up-to-date and visionary planning."

The report has been agreed by the Aberdeen City and Shire Strategic Development Planning Authority (SDPA), and prepared in partnership with infrastructure providers and house builders.

(JP/IT)