Record number of new homes built in 2006

A report published by The Highland Council shows that a record number of new homes were built in the Highlands with 1,688 new houses completed – a rise of 26% compared with the 2005 figure of 1,344.

This steep rise follows the steady increases seen in previous years.  The largest increases in housing development between 2005 and 2006 were in Badenoch and Strathspey, Inverness, Lochaber and Caithness.

In 2006, 278 new affordable homes were built across the Highlands representing 17% of all housing completions last year.

Councillor Sandy Park, Chairman of The Highland Council’s  Planning, Development, Europe and Tourism Committee, said: “The Highlands are thriving and our population is continuing to grow so I am delighted to see that the number of new homes being built has continued to rise in 2006.  As always we will not be complacent and will keep working with developers and local communities to ensure that people have a choice of quality homes at a range of prices they can afford.”

John Rennilson, the Council’s Director of Planning and Development Services, added: “Nearly 300 affordable homes were built in 2006.  The provision of affordable housing is a key priority for The Council and the planning process has a pivotal role to play along with our partners in the Housing Service, Highland Housing Alliance, Communities Scotland and its Housing Associations and others.”

Full details of the publication “Housing Completions 2006” can be found on the Council’s website.