SPRINKLERS will be installed in all new-build social housing in future after the SNP Government agreed to fast-track a proposal from Scottish Labour.

Highland & Islands MSP David Stewart had been promoting a member’s bill at Holyrood on the issue in light of last year’s lethal blaze at Grenfell tower.

It had received overwhelming cross-party support, with more than 50 MSPs from all five parties backing it, meaning it would have advanced through parliament.

However the Scottish Government has now taken over the plan, speeding its progress, as part of a broader programme of post-Grenfell safety improvements.

Sprinklers and fire suppression systems are currently mandatory in all high-rise domestic buildings, whether private or social, with a floor more than 18 metres high.

The new measure will extend that to all new build social housing.

A recent review also recommended expanding the use of sprinkler systems in houses in multiple occupation used as care facilities or with more than 10 people.

Mr Stewart said: “Fire sprinklers have been proven time and time again to be effective in the fight against fire and I know that this move will save lives.

“The strong backing for the plans from the public, industry and across the Parliamentary Chamber has been so encouraging and I am delighted that the Scottish Government have seen the sense in these proposals and have decided to take them on.

“The ball is now in the Government’s court to respond effectively and quickly to this overwhelming support.

“I intend to work closely with the Government on the plans and will continue to campaign to ensure that this new requirement makes it onto the statue books as soon as possible.

“My hope is that, as fire sprinkler technology becomes more widely used, eventually all Scottish homes will be protected by this life saving technology.”

Housing minister Kevin Stewart said the government would bring forward legislation as soon as practicable in the parliamentary session.

He said: “This is an opportunity to further improve standards in our social housing and this work will be taken forward alongside the recommendations of the two reviews of building standards and fire safety which we will consult on later this summer.

“I look forward to continuing to work together with David Stewart and the very many others who have contributed to date in order to see this legislation through.”