Stirling Council’s plans to develop over 700 new affordable homes over the coming five years have been highlighted to the Scottish Government.

Housing convenor Evelyn Tweed outlined the proposals to housing minister Kevin Stewart and cabinet secretary for communities, social security and equalities, Angela Constance.

Councillor Tweed was among a group of housing convenors from across Scotland invited to meet ministers and update on the progress on affordable housing developments in their community.

The Scottish Government has set councils and registered social landlords a target of building 50,000 affordable homes by May 2021.

Councillor Tweed said: “We are committed to increasing the supply of high-quality energy-efficient council homes in our area which will benefit our residents and enhance our communities. We have an ambitious plan and are well on our way to helping to meet the targets set.

“The meeting was a great opportunity to emphasise the progress we are making in Stirling with our house building programme and also to highlight our future developments.

“It also provided a forum for discussing the challenges which councils may face around developing housing sites. We will continue to work in partnership with the Scottish Government and others to deliver the homes our residents want and need.”