The SNP Government is on track to meet its ambitious affordable housing target of delivering at least 50,000 affordable homes over this Parliament, including 35,000 for social rent, before the end of the 2016-2021 term.
The figures show an increase of 745 homes (4%) across all sectors, from 18,683 in 2016-17 to 19,428 in 2017-18. This is the fifth consecutive increase and the highest annual figure since 2008-09.
They also show that affordable housing approvals total 11,926 homes, up 12% (1,252 homes) on the previous year.
Housing Minister Kevin Stewart MSP said:
"I am immensely proud that this government has now delivered more than 78,000 affordable homes since 2007.
"I am delighted that these figures show we are on track to deliver at least 50,000 affordable homes over this Parliament, including 35,000 for social rent. This is backed by more than £3 billion - the single biggest investment in, and delivery of, affordable housing since devolution and we are determined to see it benefit all parts of Scotland.
"Making sure everyone has a safe, warm and affordable home is central to this Government's drive for a fairer and more prosperous Scotland. This year's Programme for Government included proposals to develop a vision for housing in 2040 - the first time we have taken a long-term approach to ensuring that Scotland has housing fit for the future.
"That's vital if we are to ensure we meet the needs of people in the future and continue to deliver housing for the people of Scotland."
Kenneth Gibson MSP added:
“The SNP Government continues to invest heavily in quality affordable housing, creating thousands of jobs along the way.
“North Ayrshire Council (NAC) plans to build 1,700 new council homes over five years. Each will attract funding support of £59,000, meaning that the SNP Government will back NAC’s plans to the tune of £100,300,000.
“By contrast, from 2003-2007 the last Labour/Lib Dem administration at Holyrood backed construction of only a SIX council homes in all of Scotland. The six were in Shetland. It is only thanks to the SNP Government that we have seen a revival in Council Housing.
“The SNP Government also supports housing associations. For example, Cunninghame Housing Association built 70 affordable homes to a high standard at Sweeney Court and Sweeney Gardens in Ardrossan earlier this year. Of the £7.7 million cost, £5.8 million was grant funding from the SNP Government.
“Providing good quality affordable homes will continue to be a priority for the SNP.”
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