The City of Edinburgh Council has initiated a public consultation regarding its Affordable Housing Policy (AHP), aiming to gather diverse perspectives on the future direction of this key housing strategy. Edinburgh was a pioneering local authority in Scotland, becoming the first to introduce an AHP back in 2000. Under the existing policy, housing developments comprising 12 or more homes are required to allocate 35% for affordable housing provisions.

Today, Edinburgh faces increasing housing challenges, characterised by rents and house prices that exceed the national average. The city also records a lower proportion of social rented homes, standing at just 16% compared to the Scottish average of 22%, and currently accommodates over 5,000 households in temporary accommodation.

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The ongoing consultation follows the publication of the Affordable Housing Policy Guidance 2025 report, which was deliberated at the Planning Committee meeting in April. The Council is specifically reviewing the non-statutory elements of the policy and actively seeks public feedback to shape the next iteration of the Affordable Housing Guidance. This updated guidance is anticipated to be considered by the Planning Committee in November 2025. The consultation period is open until Tuesday, 23 July 2025.

Lezley Marion Cameron, Convener for Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work, urged public participation. "Too many people and families in Edinburgh are struggling to find a stable and affordable place to live, and too many are still in temporary accommodation. We are making progress, however, there is much more to do to meet the increasing demand for housing in Edinburgh," she stated.

She concluded by emphasising the importance of public input: "That is why I am encouraging people to participate in the consultation and share their views to influence how we shape our communities and deliver the much needed affordable homes our city and citizens need."