Edinburgh is set for a major housing boost in an ambitious plan to build thousands of new homes.
Six housing associations, or Registered Social Landlords, have pledged to match Edinburgh City Council’s new plan to build 8,000 homes, which will bring 16,000 affordable homes to the Scottish capital over the next decade.
Cammy Day, housing leader, said: "We all know about the acute shortage of affordable homes in the capital; a shortage that’s pushing house prices out of the reach of those on low to middle incomes, increasing rents in the private sector and creating a cost of living crisis that’s putting real pressure on people across Edinburgh.
"This fantastic joint commitment will see the council and its partners build on their current successes and accelerate house building to provide the increase in affordable homes that Edinburgh so desperately needs."
He also said: "This joint commitment won’t just deliver 16,000 homes - we expect it to generate benefits to the local and national economy of around £4bn, create over 3,000 jobs and bring in additional council tax revenue to help fund the delivery of essential services for the people of Edinburgh.
“Reducing the cost of living for tenants and building more affordable homes are key priorities for the council.”
Alister Steele, from housing association Castle Rock Edinvar, said: "Extending our contribution in collaboration with fellow housing associations and the City of Edinburgh Council allows us all to make a significant contribution to the housing supply, wellbeing and economic growth in the city."
Almost 150 families bid for every council and housing association home available for rent in Edinburgh, and the city’s population is set to grow by up to 30 per cent over the next 20 years.
The council was already planning to secure 3,000 affordable homes in the city.
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