Newly-released figures by the Scottish Government have revealed that the number of new build completions are now at the highest level in three years.

Across all sectors, the statistics reveal that 4,583 homes were completed between April to June 2014, the largest quarterly figure since 2010. It is also a 29% increase on the same quarter in 2013.

Commenting on the figures, Housing Minister Margaret Burgess said: "I welcome the fact that the number of new homes built across all sectors is at its highest level for over three years, and I am particularly pleased that we are nearing our target of delivering 20,000 homes for social rent by March 2016.


"The Scottish Government's investment in affordable housing, together with measures to support the industry and help people into home ownership, have undoubtedly helped to stimulate housing supply."

She continued: "Making sure everyone in Scotland has access to good quality housing is a vital part of the Scottish Government's drive to secure economic growth, promote social justice, strengthen communities and tackle inequality.

"As part of this effort we have delivered over 4,500 new council houses since 2009 and have acted to preserve Scotland's social housing stock by abolishing the Right to Buy from 1 August 2016, which will protect up to 15,500 social houses from sale and safeguard social housing for future generations."

(JP/MH)