More than 1,600 homes in the social rented sector are to benefit from fuel poverty measures, it has been announced.

The measures will ensure the properties are warmer and less expensive to heat.

The funds will be allocated through the Scottish Government's £4.5m Green Homes Cashback Scheme. The scheme provides funding to 24 registered social landlords and local authorities in Scotland to go towards the cost of fitting energy efficiency measures in their properties.

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Housing Minister Margaret Burgess said: "This £4.5 million fund will not only improve the quality of social rented properties up and down the country but it will make a real difference to families who are struggling to make ends meet.

"It is scandalous that fuel poverty exists in an energy rich country like Scotland, that's why this Government has spent almost a quarter of a billion pounds over a three year period on energy efficiency measures.

"Through the Green Homes Cashback Scheme we are helping social landlords and councils upgrade their properties with energy efficiency measures, which will in turn will save residents' money on fuel bills and cut emissions."

Ms Burgess was speaking ahead of Tuesday's Housing Supply Debate which will outline the progress that has been made to deliver more and improved housing throughout Scotland.

(JP/CD)