2019/20 saw the delivery of 141 new affordable homes across the Scottish Borders and, underpinned by an estimated investment of £158 million, the council’s Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2020-2025 proposes the delivery of 1,066 new affordable homes over the next five years.

This represents a record level of investment in social housing, as a vital piece of infrastructure, in the Scottish Borders.

Councillor Mark Rowley, Scottish Borders Council’s executive member for economic regeneration and finance, said: “I’m passionate that the council works with our partners to deliver exceptional housing across the Scottish Borders, so I’m delighted we are recognising the value of social housing by taking part in this year’s Scottish Housing Day.

“The importance of everyone having access to a safe and affordable place to call home has become more significant than ever during the coronavirus pandemic and the registered social landlords across the Scottish Borders have worked extremely hard to ensure their tenants have had the support they need while also playing a vital role in developing resilience in our communities.

“As more and more people work from home, the function of where and how we live is changing and this presents a significant opportunity to attract more people to the Scottish Borders both as an attractive destination to live and as a great place to work from too. 

“At Scottish Borders Council, we are committed to playing our part to supporting local people to have access to the homes they need and can offer a wide range of support and advice to tenants, homeowners, landlords and developers.”