Liberal Democrat Housing spokesperson Jim Tolson MSP has welcomed Edinburgh City Council’s announcement that 1100 new council houses will be built.

Mr Tolson has urged the Scottish Government to help other local authorities follow Edinburgh’s lead by tackling the blockages that delay house building.

Commenting, Mr Tolson said:

“It’s critically important that local authorities and the Scottish Government work together to overcome the shortage of affordable rented housing. I am delighted that Edinburgh Council has signalled it will build 1100 new council houses. I hope that other local authorities will follow suit.

“The Scottish Government could help local authorities by simplifying the planning system to tackle the blockages which delay house building across the country. For instance, Liberal Democrats believe that the recently announced Housing Supply Task Force should include practical recommendations like increased investment in water and sewerage facilities.

“This investment in the infrastructure necessary to support new housing will help local authorities to build the affordable homes that Scotland needs.”