West Lothian Council was shortlisted in two categories for the awards, which recognise outstanding work by housing organisations to improve the lives of people in their communities.

West Lothian Council’s 1,000 new build housing programme was Highly Commended in the Local Authority of the Year category - coming second to Manchester City Council, one of the UK’s largest councils.

The council were also named a finalist in the Outstanding Development Programme of the Year Category. The judges said: “The finalists this year were incredibly diverse, representing some of the largest and smallest landlords in the sector, and between them meet a huge variety of different needs.”

West Lothian Council were the only Scottish landlord to be highly commended or receive an award.

George Paul, executive councillor for services for the community, said: “I’d like to congratulate all the council staff involved in delivering the 1,000 new homes project. Everyone involved in this programme will be absolutely delighted that West Lothian Council were recognised at the UK Housing Awards.

“Building 1,000 new council homes across the nine council ward areas will help satisfy the demand for affordable housing in West Lothian and enhance communities for generations to come.

“West Lothian is one of Scotland’s top performing local authorities when it comes to both the quality of our existing housing stock and the high number of new council homes being built. West Lothian Council were the only Scottish council to be recognised at the UK Housing awards and that highlights the innovation, commitment and vision that the council has in terms of providing more, affordable homes for our local communities.”

Emma Maier, editor of Inside Housing, added: “The quality of the entries rose again this year so even to get this far is an amazing achievement. In the face of some really stiff competition, West Lothian Council has shown it is performing at the highest level - well done!”