§ Mr. BrakeTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will reduce the number of units or hectares in a housing development above which local authorities can require an element of social housing to be provided in the development. [32337]
§ Mr. Macdonald[holding answer 3 March 1998]Current guidance in Scotland does not specify a particular scale of housing development above which local authorities can require houses to be provided which are affordable to those in lower income groups. Instead, local authorities are encouraged to consider, in conjunction with Scottish Homes, whether there is a requirement for affordable housing to meet local needs in a particular area. Where appropriate, in the light of that consideration, structure and local plans should then include policies which address any such needs so identified.