SFHA has responded to the First Minister's announcement on plans for a new national housing agency.

SFHA Chief Executive, Richard Meade said: “It is welcome that the First Minister’s announcement has recognised social and affordable housing as a key driver of both economic growth and tackling poverty. 

“Whilst we await further details on the proposals for a new housing agency, we do appreciate the Scottish Government’s willingness to explore reforms which can accelerate the delivery of the safe, warm and affordable homes Scotland needs to end the housing emergency. 

“It is crucial, however, that any reforms to delivery are underpinned by significantly increased public funding- beyond what has already been announced in the Scottish Budget and Spending Review.  

“We know from the research, that over the course of the next parliament, meeting Scotland’s housing need will require annual public investment of £1.6bn to deliver the 15,693 social and affordable homes we must build each year. Any new housing agency must work in partnership with Scotland’s housing associations and co-operatives and be laser-focused in our shared mission to deliver the secure, warm and affordable homes everyone deserves.”