Why is this National Indicator important?
High house prices make it difficult for certain groups, particularly those on lower incomes, to realise aspirations for home ownership. They also make Scotland a less attractive place to live and invest in. Increasing the supply of housing and the responsiveness of the housing market is the surest way of improving affordability in the medium to long term. It will also support a wealthier and fairer Scotland.
What will influence this National Indicator?
The key influences on housing supply are:
- Supply of land for housing made available through the planning system.
- Capacity and responsiveness of developers and the construction sector.
- Supply of the necessary infrastructure - water, sewerage, access to transport network.
- Housing market conditions.
What is the Government's role?
Through its policy and guidance, Government sets the framework that enables the accurate identification of our housing requirements and the delivery of sufficient good quality houses in the right places. The Government also encourages a housing system that is more responsive to demand and which is therefore better able to suppress market volatility and improve affordability. It monitors the effectiveness of the planning system, infrastructure providers and the development industry in support of an adequate house-building programme. Finally, it ensures there is integration across all elements of the housing system.
How are we performing?
The supply of new housing in Scotland decreased by 18%, from 27,500 in 2007/08, to 22,600 in 2008/09 - this is the lowest figure in a decade. However, despite the overall fall, both housing association and local authority new build figures increased from the previous year. The recession has clearly impacted on private house building, with only 16,500 houses being built by the private sector in 2008/9 - this is the lowest figure in this sector for more than a decade.
Source: Scottish Government, Affordable Housing Investment Database: Housing Statistical Returns
Methodology
This evaluation is based on: any difference within +/- 1,000 houses of last year's figure suggests that the position is more likely to be maintaining than showing any change. An increase of 1,000 houses or more suggests the position is improving; whereas a decrease of 1,000 houses or more suggests the position is worsening.
For information on general methodological approach, please click here.
Further Information
Scotland Performs Technical Note
Statistics Topic Page
Who are our partners?
Local planning authorities
Scottish Water
Transport Scotland
Related Strategic Objectives
Wealthier and Fairer
Safer and Stronger