Scottish Greens welcome action plan for rural homes
The Scottish Greens have welcomed the publication of the Scottish Government’s action plan for rural and island homes, but said it is the “action” part which matters.
The plan seeks to increase the number of homes built across rural Scotland and will support the Scottish Government’s commitment to deliver 11,000 affordable new homes in rural and island areas by 2032.
The new package delivers on a key policy in the Bute House Agreement between the Scottish Greens and the Scottish Government.
The Scottish Greens housing and rural affairs spokesperson, Ariane Burgess MSP, said:
“This important plan has the potential to support how rural Scotland develops – keeping wealth in our local economy and creating homes for the people we need to work in growing sectors like nature restoration, sustainable forestry and climate adaptation.
“At present it can be daunting to get new, affordable homes built in rural Scotland and our islands – land is expensive, there are restrictions on development, and it costs more to get materials and tradespeople on site.
“Add to this low wages, precarious work and competition from property investors and second homes, and it’s not surprising so many young people say they simply can’t afford to live in or move to rural Scotland.
“Just a few homes can make all the difference to small communities, supporting local businesses, keeping small schools open and building a future for young people and families who might otherwise leave.
“So the plan is timely and I am proud that with Scottish Greens in government we are delivering for rural Scotland. And the focus must now turn to the action needed to make the plan a reality.”