Making a Difference

Building Stronger Communities

Record Investment Brings Joy for New Homeowners

Getting a foothold on the housing ladder has become increasingly difficult in Moray, as throughout the country, over the last few years.  This has resulted in frustration for many and led, in some cases, to people leaving the area to find suitable accommodation elsewhere.

Meeting this challenge head-on over the past year, Communities Scotland has invested a record £11.3 million to increase the supply of affordable housing throughout Moray.  87 new houses have been completed and work started on a further 90 properties in locations including Elgin, Buckie, Forres, Keith, Lossiemouth and Burghead.  A number of sites have also been acquired for future development.

Much of the investment has financed new build housing for rent, but, in addition, a new approach to low cost home ownership - Homestake -  was piloted in Elgin.  This enables first time buyers, who cannot afford the cost of a new home, to purchase between 51% and 80% of it.

The money from Communities Scotland, along with funding from The Moray Council, has also enabled the purchase of 68 former Ministry of Defence Housing Executive properties for rent, with a further 9 offered for sale at reduced prices.

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