Scottish Borders Council’s Executive Committee received an update at its meeting yesterday on the delivery of the Local Housing Strategy covering the period from 2017 and also the Strategic Housing Investment Plan.

Supported by funding of over £93m from the Scottish Government, council funding and investment by registered social landlords a total of 1,046 affordable homes have been provided over the past six years.

The draft Local Housing Strategy for 2023-28, which is currently subject of ongoing consultation, has identified the potential to deliver a further 1,320 affordable homes.

Councillor Robin Tatler, executive member for communities and equalities, said: “The progress in providing affordable homes to support our residents, communities and employers over the past six years has been remarkable considering the challenges experienced and I want to pay tribute to all those who have made it possible.

“The investment into energy efficiency measures, which have reduced fuel bills and carbon emissions, and the activity to help bring empty homes back into use are also well worth celebrating and give us a strong position to build upon with the next Local Housing Strategy.”

In April 2021 the Committee agreed to part fund a full time, dedicated empty homes officers for two years. This role supports owners and purchasers and co-ordinates cross-working with other Council services and partners to tackle empty properties, which helps contribute to town centre regeneration and meeting local housing need. Thirty-six empty homes were brought back into use in 2022/23 as a result. The Council has recently agreed to make this position permanent.

The Local Housing Strategy provides direction for tackling housing issues across the Borders and informs investment into housing and related services. It also helps support action and attract funding from the Scottish Government.

The draft strategy for 2023-28 addresses a number of key priorities, including fuel poverty, climate change, house condition and homelessness, as well as the joint and strategic approach of the council and partners to delivering high quality housing to meet identified local need.

More information on the draft Local Housing Strategy and a link to the consultation, which is open until 21 July, can be found at www.scotborders.gov.uk/LHS2023.