Midlothian Council has given the green light to the Midlothian Local Housing Strategy (LHS) for the period spanning 2026/27 to 2030/31.

This five-year plan serves as the primary strategic document for housing within the region, encompassing all tenures and aligning with broader investment and development priorities.

The core vision of the strategy is to ensure that every household in Midlothian can access good-quality, affordable housing situated within sustainable environments. Developed in accordance with Scottish Government guidance, the LHS identifies critical housing challenges and sets out the specific outcomes the council intends to achieve by the end of the five-year term.

The final strategy was shaped by extensive stakeholder and community engagement conducted in two distinct phases during 2025. Between 31 March and 9 May 2025, residents were invited to provide feedback via online surveys, email, text, and telephone. A second consultation phase took place from 1 September to 3 October 2025, offering further opportunities for input through in-person drop-in sessions, virtual meetings, and surveys.

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Following a draft submission to the Scottish Government on 2 December 2025, the final document incorporates feedback from government policy teams, the More Homes Division, and peer reviewers from East Dunbartonshire Council.

By the 2030/31 target, the strategy aims to deliver several key outcomes:

• Increased housing supply and improved access across all tenures.

• Enhanced placemaking throughout the Midlothian area.

• Improved support and settled accommodation for households experiencing homelessness.

• Better housing options tailored for individuals with specific needs.

• A rise in energy-efficient homes and a reduction in fuel poverty risks.

• Improved maintenance and condition of housing stock across the board.

• Stronger integration between housing services and health and social care.

Kevin Anderson, Midlothian Director with responsibility for Housing, commented on the approval: "This strategy sets out a clear and ambitious vision for the future of housing in Midlothian across all tenures. We know how important it is for people to have a secure, warm and affordable home, and this plan brings together our commitments to increase supply, improve quality and support some of our most vulnerable residents. The level of community input into the strategy has been invaluable, and we want to thank everyone who took the time to share their experiences and priorities."