SSEN Transmission targets 1,000+ new homes delivery
SSEN Transmission has set a bold target to facilitate the construction of over 1,000 new homes across northern Scotland by the year 2030 through an innovative new strategy. At the core of this strategic plan is the Pathway to 2030 programme, involving a £20 billion investment to modernise the transmission network in the region, aligning with energy security goals and national net zero objectives.
Given the need for workers’ accommodation to support the various proposed projects, SSEN Transmission aims to establish a positive long-term impact in the communities hosting its workforce by delivering housing solutions that cater to local needs post-project completion. Collaboration with councils, registered social landlords, and other housing organisations is key in implementing this strategy. The company is exploring different models, including identifying suitable sites for worker accommodation that can later transition into permanent housing once projects conclude.
Through partnerships with housing stakeholders, SSEN Transmission hopes to secure investments by offering long-term leases on new build homes linked to permanent housing needs identified in local authority plans. This approach has generated significant interest from local authorities, prompting optimism that it could serve as a blueprint for infrastructure developers across Scotland.
Additionally, SSEN Transmission plans to engage with councils to back local initiatives aimed at repurposing vacant homes and bringing them back into use.
Origins of the Strategy
Mary Jarvie, SSEN Transmission’s housing strategy manager, explained to Scottish Housing News the rationale behind the initiative. She highlighted the challenge of delivering £20 billion worth of energy infrastructure by 2030 amidst a housing crisis, especially in remote rural areas where thousands of transient workers will be employed.
Mary emphasised the need to avoid aggravating the housing crisis and instead focus on supporting host communities while ensuring a smooth path for infrastructure development. She outlined the inefficiencies of the traditional model of temporary worker accommodation and stressed the importance of leaving behind sustainable housing solutions for the communities.
Template for Other Infrastructure Developers
The housing strategy aims to deliver around 400 homes in Highland and a corresponding number in Aberdeenshire, with additional housing projects planned across SSEN Transmission’s coverage area. The company will unveil its plans at the Housing Challenge Summit in Aviemore, presenting this strategy as a potential template for other infrastructure developers looking to drive housing development in project-based communities.
Rob McDonald, SSEN Transmission’s managing director, commended the commitment to support over 1,000 new homes in northern Scotland as a significant step towards addressing housing challenges in the region. He highlighted ongoing discussions with local authorities, developers, and social landlords to finalise project locations, with more announcements expected in the near future.
Reacting to the strategy, housing minister Paul McLennan lauded the innovative approach and underscored the importance of quality housing in sustaining local communities, aligning with broader affordable housing goals set for Scotland.
Response from Social Landlords
Regarding social landlords’ reception of the plans, Mary Jarvie expressed enthusiasm for the collaborative efforts and creativity displayed in response to the unique demands presented by SSEN Transmission. The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations echoed this sentiment, anticipating positive outcomes from the partnership.
The Highland Council’s Housing and Property Committee chair, Cllr Glynis Campbell Sinclair, welcomed the innovative housing proposals, highlighting the significance of legacy housing in enhancing social value and community development.
Overall, SSEN Transmission’s forward-looking approach to housing development not only addresses immediate workforce housing needs but also aims to create enduring value for host communities, setting a precedent for sustainable infrastructure projects across Scotland.