THE Scottish Government has announced that up to £25 million is being made available to help local authorities identify affordable homes for key workers in rural communities.
The five-year initiative is designed to enable councils and registered social landlords to acquire or lease properties which can be used to provide homes to meet the needs of their communities.
From the Affordable Housing Supply Programme, £25 million will be made available from 2023-28 to help to make best use of underused or empty properties by making them available for key workers and others in need.
Housing minister Paul McLennan said, “Opportunity, equality and community are vital to everyone no matter wherever they live, and we recognise that a tailored approach is needed for our rural areas. Good quality affordable housing is essential to attract and retain people in rural communities, particularly in areas where key workers are needed. That’s why we are making up to £25 million available in a dedicated fund to make affordable homes for key workers, such as those working in the public sector and emergency services.”
Gail Matheson, CEO at Highland Housing Alliance, commented, “Important to future proofing and strengthening the Highland economy is the availability of high-quality and well-priced homes for local workforces. Without the provision of more housing, we risk jeopardising attracting and retaining skilled workers across the region.
“Highland Housing Alliance (HHA) is very pleased to welcome the allocation of dedicated budget for suitable properties in rural areas to be utilised for those who need affordable housing, including key workers. Working with Cairngorms Partnership, HHA has helped to provide homes available at mid-market rent in Aviemore and Kincraig specifically for local workers. This is proving to be a huge success with further communities earmarked for development as part of the scheme and we welcome more incentives that mirror its ethos and bridges the gap between demand and supply of affordable housing.”
