Members of the Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Committee formally approved the 2026/27 Housing Revenue Account (HRA) capital programme for investment. This scheme forms a key component of the wider Housing Revenue Account Budget Strategy 2026/27 to 2035/36.

The approved framework includes a commitment of over £111 million dedicated to housebuilding during 2026-27, which will support the construction of approximately 4,275 new affordable homes over the coming five years. This marks the initial year of a major strategic intervention designed to confront the housing emergency by deploying a total of £1.3 billion over five years to deliver settled accommodation.

Key housebuilding initiatives progressing under the programme include:

• The design of replacement housing for Oxcars Court and Inchmickery Court.

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• New developments located at Murrayburn, Greendykes, Burdiehouse, and Powderhall.

• Comprehensive neighbourhood redevelopment at Granton Waterfront.

The total budget allocation incorporates £18.3 million reserved for purchasing residential properties from private developers to increase the volume of settled housing, while £2.5 million will be utilised to bring vacant properties up to a standard suitable for letting.

Furthermore, nearly £70 million will fund enhancements across the city's high-rise residential blocks. This work will span extensive refurbishment via the Council's retrofit programme, alongside window replacements and fire safety upgrades. A further £45 million has been designated for investment across low-rise estates, targeting essential improvements to bathrooms, kitchens, and windows, as well as general repairs and energy efficiency upgrades delivered via Mixed Tenure improvement initiatives.

Councillor Tim Pogson, Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener, stated: "In 2023 we became the first city in Scotland to declare a Housing Emergency and we're still committed to tackling this head-on. The Housing Revenue Account investment programme demonstrates our dedication through a range of ambitious projects to boost our housing stock and improve the standards of our existing estate.

"Like cities and towns across the country we're facing huge challenges in terms of housing shortages, the cost of living and a rising population. By investing wisely I'm confident that we can and will lessen the impact of these issues and make sure everyone has a safe place to live."