A new housing development is to be created in Aberdeen, which will be used, primarily, by NHS staff.

The proposals, which have been announced by Health Secretary Alex Neil, will see he homes constructed on the Craiginches site in the city. The land belonged to a former prison and has been sold to Sanctuary Scotland Housing Association. The Scottish Government is helping to fund the project.

The project will include various forms of affordable housing targeted at key workers, in particular NHS workers, as part of a pilot scheme that will ensure important public servants are provided with the opportunity to access the new homes.

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Mr Neil commented: "There are record levels of staff working in our NHS – more nurses and doctors than ever before. But, while we have supported this unprecedented recruitment by boards across Scotland, we know that some local areas like the North East have experienced difficulties attracting staff.

"We need to think creatively and flexibly about helping where we can – which is exactly what today's announcement is all about. Finding affordable housing in Aberdeen in particular has been noted as an issue that is causing difficulties in the recruitment and retention of staff. We hope these new homes will help NHS staff and other key workers find a place to live, so they can make a vital contribution to our public services.

"We will now take forward the plans with partners and draw up a key workers policy to ensure these homes are targeted at the public service workers who really need them."

Dr Annie Ingram, Director of Workforce at NHS Grampian, said: "This is a very welcome initiative. Finding affordable housing in the Aberdeen area is a real challenge for our staff and can be a real disincentive to staff who want to work for NHS Grampian, but cannot afford to relocate to the area. We look forward to working with our partners to develop these plans."

(JP/MH)