Thousands of Scottish jobs could be created if home building manages to return to pre-recessions levels, according to new research.

A recent report by the House Builders Federation (HBF) revealed over 100,000 new jobs were created in England last year due to a surge in home building.

However, trade body Homes for Scotland (HfS) has now identified 40,000 Scottish jobs that could be generated by the end of the next Scottish Parliament if home building levels in the country were to return to pre-recession levels.


Philip Hogg, Chief Executive of HfS, said: "Research has also shown that every home built in Scotland supports over four jobs but the benefits go much wider than just employment and the contribution to our economy.

"Ensuring we have enough homes to properly house Scotland's growing population also means improving access to fit-for-purpose and energy-efficient homes as well as supporting better health and education outcomes."

However, Mr Hogg revealed home building levels in Scotland are still 40% below 2007 levels and show "no signs of abating".

HfS has now called on the next Scottish Government to stimulate growth north of the border and manage a return to at least pre-recession levels of building.

"Clearly, providing more 'affordable' homes will be a key element in tackling our country's chronic undersupply but this alone will not address the housing crisis," he added.

[Pictured: Philip Hogg, Chief Executive of Homes for Scotland]

(LM)