Proposals to help meet the demand for affordable homes while safeguarding taxpayers money were announced today.

The consultation on the future of housing investment in Scotland outlines plans for a network of lead developers. This will allow housing associations to increase efficiency and maximise the supply of new homes.

Lead developers will also be able to aid the construction industry by adopting long term plans for investment.

Meanwhile the proposals recognise the important housing and planning role of local authorities, and how to ensure that investment reflects the needs of communities.

-- Advertisement --

Speaking at the Chartered Institute of Housing Conference, Communities Minister Stewart Maxwell, said: "Scottish housing associations have a proud track record of developing and managing homes across the length and breadth of the country, and they have made a real difference to many of our most vulnerable communities.

"But we now face the challenge of maintaining or increasing supply in a turbulent financial climate, and Associations need to consider whether new approaches would enable them to do even more."

Brian Gegan, Chairman of the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations, encouraged all housing associations to respond to the consultation and let the Government know their views.

Kennedy Foster, Policy Consultant for the Council of Mortgage Lenders Scotland, said: "The risk profile of the Scottish housing association sector remains good and there is still an appetite to lend to associations. CML welcomes the Government's proposals for lead developers because there is a need for greater co-ordination in borrowing and more sophisticated risk management by associations."

(GK/JM)