‘Bold vision’ for Scotland’s Infrastructure must be backed by action

The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) has welcomed the publication of the Infrastructure Commission (ICS) for Scotland’s 30-year ‘blueprint’ but said the Scottish Government must show leadership in beginning implementation as soon as possible.

In the first report of its kind, the ICS has provided 23 recommendations following engagement with more than 1,000 members of the public, key stakeholders and organisations across Scotland. 

SFHA Chief Executive Sally Thomas said:

“This report provides a bold vision for an inclusive net-zero carbon economy. It can be hugely influential in supporting the changes our sector is already making towards tackling our climate emergency and ensuring homes are built with a focus on place-making.

“Whilst the report acknowledges the good work already underway and places an emphasis on collaborative working, the recommendations are primarily aimed at the Scottish Government. We look forward to continuing to work with the government and to influencing the next phase of this report, which will focus on how these recommendations will be achieved.”

Sally Thomas continued:

“Across Scotland, housing associations are key drivers for place-making, creating sustainable, connected, and affordable neighbourhoods. However, there remains the urgent need for clarity around investment in social housing post-2021, if we are going to avoid the escalation of the crisis which already sees around 160,000 households on waiting lists.

“Good progress has been made with the current housing programme, but the lack of certainty on government investment from April of next year is already seeing housing associations suspend plans to build.

“The Scottish Government must provide the continuity for social housing providers to build and maintain great homes, in great places, for the people of Scotland.”
 

 

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For further information, please contact SFHA Communications Lead Gordon Brown on 07510 590 388 or gbrown@sfha.co.uk

Visit our website www.sfha.co.uk

Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/SFHA.HousingScotland

Twitter www.twitter.com/sfha_hq

NOTES TO EDITORS 
SFHA is the membership body for, and voice of, housing associations and co-operatives in Scotland. SFHA’s 136 members represent 87% of the sector, provide 260,000 homes and employ over 15,000 staff.