It's time to put housing at top of the political agenda

Published in House and Home on Saturday, August 2nd 2025 at 20:32 GMT by The Scotsman
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A massive income boost for Scotland should be used to help people get their own home, writes David J Alexander

It's Time to Put Housing at the Top of the Political Agenda

In the midst of escalating economic pressures and social inequalities, the housing crisis has emerged as one of the most pressing issues facing Scotland and the broader UK. For too long, it has been sidelined in political discourse, overshadowed by debates on taxation, healthcare, and education. Yet, the reality on the ground is stark: skyrocketing rents, unaffordable mortgages, a chronic shortage of social housing, and a growing homelessness epidemic are tearing at the fabric of society. It's high time that politicians across the spectrum elevate housing to the forefront of their agendas, recognizing it not just as a policy area but as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of economic stability.

The roots of this crisis run deep, intertwined with decades of underinvestment, flawed planning policies, and market-driven approaches that have prioritized profit over people. In Scotland, where the devolved government holds significant powers over housing, the situation is particularly acute. Recent data highlights a dire shortfall: thousands of households are languishing on waiting lists for social housing, while private rents in cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow have surged by double digits in recent years. This isn't merely a statistical anomaly; it's a lived reality for families forced into overcrowded conditions, young professionals priced out of urban centers, and vulnerable individuals cycling through temporary accommodations. The pandemic exacerbated these issues, exposing the fragility of the housing system when job losses and health crises collide with insecure tenancies.

One of the core arguments for prioritizing housing is its ripple effect on the wider economy. Stable housing is essential for workforce mobility, productivity, and mental health. When people spend disproportionate amounts of their income on rent or mortgages—often exceeding 40% in high-demand areas—it leaves little room for discretionary spending, stifling local businesses and broader economic growth. Moreover, the construction sector, a key driver of jobs and infrastructure, has been hampered by bureaucratic red tape and insufficient incentives for developers to build affordable units. Scotland's ambitious targets for net-zero emissions add another layer of complexity, as new builds must incorporate sustainable features, yet funding for such innovations remains inconsistent.

Politically, the issue transcends party lines, though responses have varied. The Scottish National Party (SNP) has made strides with initiatives like the Affordable Housing Supply Programme, aiming to deliver 110,000 affordable homes by 2032. However, critics argue that progress is too slow, with only a fraction of that target met so far, hampered by supply chain disruptions and rising material costs. Labour, both in Holyrood and Westminster, has called for bolder interventions, such as rent controls and increased public investment in council housing. Meanwhile, the Conservatives emphasize private sector involvement, advocating for deregulation to spur development. Yet, these positions often devolve into partisan squabbles, with little cross-party collaboration to address the systemic failures.

A closer examination reveals that the crisis is multifaceted. Land availability is a bottleneck, particularly in rural areas where agricultural priorities clash with housing needs. Urban sprawl is another concern, as expanding cities encroach on green belts, raising environmental alarms. Immigration and population growth further strain resources, with newcomers often facing the brunt of housing shortages. Then there's the generational divide: millennials and Gen Z are increasingly locked out of homeownership, fostering resentment and disillusionment with the political establishment. Stories abound of young couples delaying starting families due to housing instability, or elderly residents downsizing into inadequate properties amid a lack of suitable options.

To tackle this, a comprehensive strategy is essential. First and foremost, governments must commit to ambitious building programs that prioritize affordability. This could involve reforming planning laws to fast-track approvals for social housing projects, while imposing stricter quotas on developers to include low-cost units in new developments. Incentives like tax breaks for green building practices could align housing goals with climate objectives. Rent controls, already piloted in Scotland, should be expanded and refined to prevent exploitation without deterring investment. Additionally, addressing empty properties—estimated at tens of thousands across the country—through compulsory purchase orders or higher taxes on vacant homes could unlock immediate supply.

Beyond supply-side solutions, demand must be managed thoughtfully. Enhancing tenant rights, such as longer-term leases and protections against no-fault evictions, would provide stability for renters. Financial support mechanisms, like expanded help-to-buy schemes or mortgage guarantees for first-time buyers, could bridge the affordability gap. Crucially, this requires funding: reallocating budgets from less critical areas or exploring innovative financing, such as public-private partnerships, to bolster resources without overburdening taxpayers.

The social implications cannot be overstated. Housing insecurity correlates strongly with poor health outcomes, educational disruptions, and even crime rates. Children in unstable homes are more likely to underperform academically, perpetuating cycles of poverty. For the elderly and disabled, accessible housing is a lifeline, yet provision lags far behind demand. In diverse communities, inclusive housing policies can foster integration and reduce social tensions. Ignoring these aspects risks deepening divisions in an already polarized society.

Looking abroad offers valuable lessons. Countries like Austria and Singapore have successfully implemented models where public housing dominates, ensuring broad access and high standards. Vienna's social housing system, for instance, houses over 60% of residents affordably, funded through a mix of rents and subsidies. Scotland could adapt such approaches, tailoring them to its unique geography and demographics.

Ultimately, elevating housing to the top of the political agenda demands bold leadership and public engagement. Voters must hold politicians accountable, demanding manifestos that outline clear, measurable commitments rather than vague promises. Civil society, from charities like Shelter Scotland to community groups, plays a vital role in advocacy and innovation. The upcoming elections provide a pivotal opportunity: will parties seize it to forge a new housing consensus, or will complacency prevail?

In conclusion, the housing crisis is not an insurmountable challenge but a call to action. By prioritizing it, we can build a fairer, more resilient Scotland—one where everyone has a secure place to call home. The time for rhetoric is over; decisive, collaborative efforts are needed now to avert further hardship and unlock the potential of our communities. This isn't just about bricks and mortar; it's about dignity, opportunity, and the very future of our society. As the cost-of-living squeeze intensifies, ignoring housing risks eroding trust in democracy itself. Let's make it the priority it deserves to be.

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Read the Full The Scotsman Article at:
[ https://www.scotsman.com/business/its-time-to-put-housing-at-top-of-the-political-agenda-5182710 ]

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It's time to put housing at top of the political agenda

It's Time to Put Housing at the Top of the Political Agenda