Councillors have approved a £166 million investment in housing at a meeting of East Ayrshire’s cabinet.
The council’s housing building programme has the potential to have a “significant impact on communities across East Ayrshire” by providing safe, secure and affordable homes for local people which can reduce health inequalities, tackle child poverty and enable people to become actively involved in community life.
Councillor Douglas Reid, leader of East Ayrshire Council said: “When we talk about local housing we need to look beyond the bricks and mortar. Having access to a safe, secure, and affordable home is essential to the health and wellbeing of our communities and helps to create better neighbourhoods, a greater sense of community and contributes to local regeneration.Get all the local news in your area – plus features, football news and the latest on the coronavirus crisis – at your fingertips 24/7.
Cllr Jim McMahon, cabinet spokesperson for housing, transport and communities said: “Housing is a priority service that is facing an incredibly challenging time, bearing the consequences of the cost-of-living crisis, inflation and rising demand for affordable homes as landlords choose to sell their portfolios.
Cllr McMahon said: “Our HIP for 2025-2030 sets out how we are prioritising our investment in our existing housing stock, and it will ensure that our homes continue to perform well and meet the needs of our tenants.