Blogs

The Scottish Government published its Housing Emergency Action Plan, focused on three key areas to eradicate child poverty, support the housing needs of vulnerable groups and invest in Scotland’s housing sector, through acceleration of the planning system and construction of new affordable housing.

The plan has been prepared to tackle the growing housing crisis. Many local authorities across the country declared a housing emergency last year. Subsequently, this was then escalated to a national issue by the Scottish Government.

So, what's in the Scottish Housing Emergency Action Plan?

There is a range of Government funding announced that will accelerate housing development and a restructure of planning policy, aided by ministerial direction, that is hoped to reduce current barriers in the building and improvement of homes.

Included within the plan is the implementation of Awaab's Law from March 2026 to protect tenants from substandard properties, taking action on landlords where hazardous conditions are present.

• £4.9 billion investment over four years to deliver 36,000 affordable homes by 2029–30 and providing a home for up to 24,000 children
• Doubling acquisition investment to £80 million this year to help move 600–800 children out of temporary accommodation
• Implementation of Awaab’s Law from March 2026, starting with damp and mould, ensuring landlords act swiftly on hazardous conditions
• Launch of a £1 million national ‘fund to leave’, supporting up to 1,200 women and children escaping abusive relationships
• Unlocking land for housing in rural areas through collaboration with the Scottish National Investment Bank, landowners and public bodies
• A new Ministerial direction to planning authorities to accelerate housing delivery

How can SPA help?

For nearly a decade, SPA has provided the public sector with quick, compliant and effective procurement solutions that align with needs and requirements. During this time, we have procured more than £2.2 billion in works and services for the Scottish public sector.

As a Gold Standard verified framework provider, an accolade achieved by only a handful of organisations in the UK, we have been independently recognised for our high standards in quality, sustainability, value, and efficiency. Providing our public sector partners with confidence that our solutions are robust and reliable.

Across all 14 of our frameworks and 3 dynamic purchasing systems, we have over 300 trusted suppliers, consultants and contractors.

In addition, our Added Value Services programme provides public sector partners with in-house technical, social value, and procurement support tailored to their requirements. Sharing our expertise, knowledge and insights, public sector organisations can make informed decisions that help accelerate ambitions and deliver positive project outcomes.

Here's a snapshot of why you should use SPA for your next project

• Industry accredited – SPA achieved Gold Standard verification status in 2024 an accolade held by only a few providers. It signifies our commitment to achieving high standards in quality, sustainability, value and efficiency.
• Frameworks that accelerate your plans – With over 14 frameworks and more than 300 appointed companies, we cover all aspects of social housing and public building projects. Ranging from new build construction and refurbishment to decarbonisation and maintenance.
• Tailored end to end support - Access expert support from our in-house team, sharing best practices, insight and knowledge tailored to your requirements across procurement, technical and social value considerations at no additional cost.
• Procurement for good – We are committed to ensuring projects not only deliver value for money but also have long-lasting community benefits. Our approach focuses on purposeful outcomes that positively impact the development of local communities.
• Flexible procurement your way – Our solutions are built with flexibility in mind, allowing you to use your own contracts or standard templates as well as choose your preferred award method – a direct award or mini competition – to meet your needs.
• Investing in the upgrade of your communities - We've given back close to £6 million of our surplus since 2016 to help people reconnect and accelerate the regeneration of places in need.