Government’s Programme Fails to Address Housing Funding Delays

Housing bodies have welcomed the 2024-25 Programme for Government (PfG) for acknowledging the reality of the country’s housing emergency, but the Scottish Government has been criticised for failing to make up for delays in funding for new homes.

SFHA chief executive Sally Thomas

John Swinney, in his first PfG as first minister, outlined how the Scottish Government will deliver commitments that are “affordable, impactful, and deliverable.” He highlighted eradicating child poverty, building prosperity, improving public services, and protecting the planet as top priorities.

Regarding housing, Mr Swinney pledged an investment of nearly £600 million in affordable housing in the coming year, including an additional £40m to bring existing homes into affordable use.

“There will be a strong focus on working with partners to enable existing accommodation that is not currently in use to be made available as swiftly as possible to meet the need for housing – ensuring we take every step we can to boost the availability of housing as quickly as we possibly can,” he said.

The first minister also announced a further £100m to support the construction of around 2,800 mid-market rent homes. Additionally, amendments will be introduced in the Housing Bill to ensure tenant protection and attract more investment to supplement public finances.

Over the 2024-25 parliamentary year, the Scottish Government plans to introduce 14 Bills, with 12 already before the Scottish Parliament, including measures on climate change, criminal justice, and post-school education reform.

“This Programme for Government will ensure that the people of Scotland have every opportunity to live well, thrive, and see promise in their future,” said the first minister. He acknowledged financial limitations due to UK Government spending decisions.

The sector responds

The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) raised concerns that the PfG falls short in tackling the housing emergency and urged swift action on funding for affordable housing. SFHA chief executive Sally Thomas emphasised the need for clarity on rent controls for mid-market rent developments to increase housing supply.

Shelter Scotland highlighted the imperative of delivering more social homes to reduce the number of children in temporary accommodation. Director Alison Watson emphasised the need for meaningful targets to tackle the housing emergency.

Heat in Buildings Bill

The Existing Homes Alliance welcomed the inclusion of the Heat in Buildings Bill but stressed the importance of a firm commitment to its introduction this year. The bill aims to facilitate clean heating transitions.

Scottish Land & Estates underscored the need to consider rural Scotland’s needs in building heating standards and initiatives. The Scottish Government also proposed a Natural Environment Bill to support net-zero goals and a Crofting Bill.

Rent controls

Scottish Land & Estates cautioned against detrimental consequences of rent controls, emphasising potential impacts on rural rental provision. However, Living Rent advocated for prompt legislation on rent controls to address high rents and housing quality issues.

Poverty

Charities applauded the commitment to tackling poverty in the PfG but stressed the need for effective resource allocation. Citizens Advice Scotland highlighted the urgency in addressing child poverty and ensuring families have financial stability.

Children 1st expressed concerns over public spending cuts affecting families in need and called for specific plans to support vulnerable families. Independent Age urged a comprehensive strategy to address poverty among older people in Scotland.

To conclude, the 2024-25 Programme for Government in Scotland addresses critical issues such as housing, poverty, and climate change. While welcomed by many, there are calls for more robust actions and clearer strategies to effectively tackle the pressing challenges facing the nation.