Scotland needs new generation of homes built ‘faster and with greener credentials’ | Project Scotland

SCOTLAND needs a new generation of homes that are built faster and with greener credentials, according to a national trade body.

The BMF (Builders Merchants Federation) was responding to new UK chancellor Rachel Reeves’ housebuilding proposals. The organisation has its own manifesto, titled Building A Better Britain.

The BMF’s recommendations include greater support for SME builders, the deployment of AI to speed up uncontentious planning applications, and action to tackle nutrient neutrality issues, to push projects forward.

BMF CEO John Newcomb said, “We need a clear, credible, long-term strategy for the expansion and improvement of Scotland’s housing stock. One of our key asks is that ministers utilise all available powers to encourage SME housebuilders back into the market as part of an overall drive to increase the speed and delivery of new homes where they are needed most.

“The government has a target of 300,000 new homes a year by the mid-2020s – a point in time that has now arrived, and the involvement of smaller firms is critically important to get anywhere near this figure. To achieve this, ministers should use all available powers to foster a diverse, functioning market.

“Encouraging SMEs back into this market to do what they do best – namely to build a few homes, in many locations, to a high standard, in keeping with local surroundings, that people want to buy – is our preferred solution.”

The ‘Building a Better Britain’ manifesto also sets out what the trade body believes is the most effective way to transform the UK’s current housing stock, with the BMF calling for ministers, local authorities and industry partners to embark on a nationwide programme of home insulation, aligned with the Construction Leadership Council’s 20-year National Retrofit Strategy.

John Newcomb added, “There is an urgent need to upgrade much of the existing housing stock to improve health outcomes, cut bills and reduce emissions. It is only with fresh political determination – along with unflinching efforts by local government, energy suppliers and others – that a nationwide programme of home insulation will cut household bills, improve cold homes and reduce carbon emissions.”