Accelerating cladding remediation

£20 million additional funding for the next phase

A further £20 million will speed up actions to make Scotland’s buildings safe from dangerous cladding, Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan has announced.

Publishing an update to the Cladding Remediation Programme action plan, Ms McAllan confirmed additional funding and expanded eligibility, setting out that social housing will now be eligible for remediation funding.

The Single Open Call fund launched in March, allowing owners and residents to apply for a Scottish Government funded, holistic assessment to determine the work required to make buildings safe. This fund will now be doubled to £20 million in 2025/26 and a separate £10 million will be made available to prioritise immediate mitigations for buildings most at risk.

The fund has made 258 initial grant funding offers for building owners and residents to take forward a Single Building Assessment. The £10 million additional funding will ensure every eligible application received before the end of December this year will be progressed.

Ms McAllan said: “Scotland’s Cladding Remediation Programme is progressing at pace and the additional £20 million I’ve announced today will further expedite this vital work. Doubling the funding for holistic Single Building Assessments to £20 million will ensure owners and residents can rapidly and thoroughly assess works required.

“I am also confirming £10 million to fund immediate mitigation measures where needed and have today opened a new application process for owners, including social landlords, or their representatives, to apply for funding for essential cladding remediation works identified as part of the assessment process. Finally, I am setting a deadline of 31 October 2025 by which responsible developers must sign the Developers Remediation Contract.

“Ultimately I am determined that, by 2029, every high-risk residential building over 18 metres will have been resolved, with buildings between 11 and 18 metres placed on a clear pathway to resolution.

“My foremost priority is to ensure the safety of all those living in buildings affected by dangerous cladding.”

Scottish Federation of Housing Associations Chief Executive Sally Thomas said: “The safety of tenants is absolutely paramount to all of Scotland’s housing associations and co-operatives, and they take their responsibility for this extremely seriously. However, without a clear and fair route to government funding, the cost of any remediation works would have fallen on tenants, who are least able to afford it.

“We’re delighted to see that the Scottish Government recognises this and will treat all housing providers equally. The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations and our members will continue to work with our government partners to ensure unsafe cladding is removed as a matter of urgency.

“No-one should have to live with the uncertainty and fear of fire hazards.”

Scottish Government: Further investment to prevent homelessness

£4 million for pilot projects

A fund for pilot projects to help people to stay in their homes has been launched by Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan.

Managed by Advice Direct Scotland, the £4 million fund will support organisations to pilot new ‘ask and act’ measures. These duties, as part of the Housing (Scotland) Bill currently being considered by the Scottish Parliament, will require bodies such as health boards, the police and prison service to take reasonable steps to prevent homelessness.

This Programme for Government commitment builds on an existing Scottish Government investment of £1 million from the homelessness prevention fund.

During her visit to West Granton Housing Co-operative in North Edinburgh Ms McAllan found out more about their ‘Get Settled’ project which supports 400 households who are homeless, or facing homelessness, across Edinburgh, Midlothian, East Lothian and Fife.

Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan said: “We are determined to end homelessness – and the best way to do this is to prevent homelessness in the first place. This investment in prevention pilots will help us test and scale up innovative approaches to help people stay in their homes.

“By taking action to prevent homelessness and reduce demand on the homelessness system, we can help ease the housing emergency.  

“Projects such as West Granton Housing Co-operative’s ‘Get Settled’ demonstrates how targeted support can transform lives by not only helping people to find a home but supporting them to settle into their communities.

“By working with housing associations, registered social landlords and other third sector partners we are building the foundations for legislation in the forthcoming Housing Bill to help prevent homelessness.”

Chief executive of Advice Direct Scotland Andrew Bartlett said: “Advice Direct Scotland is proud to be at the centre of such a landmark moment for homelessness prevention.

“The new ‘ask and act’ provisions shift the focus from crisis intervention towards proactive prevention which could save many people from enduring the trauma of homelessness.

“We look forward to working with organisations across sectors in Scotland to help people at risk of homelessness.”

Maeve McGoldrick, head of policy and communications for Crisis Scotland, said: “Far too many people in Scotland are being forced to experience the trauma and indignity of homelessness in circumstances where, with the right help, it could have been prevented.

“These new legal duties, requiring public services to ask people at risk of homelessness about their housing situation, then act to offer support if needed, will help change that.

“But these plans are a world-first, and for the changes to be effective it’s vital we test out how they will work in practice, before the new protections are rolled out across the country. By running a series of pilots on the new homelessness prevention duties we can make sure those working in health, justice, education and beyond are fully prepared to play a greater role in ending homelessness in Scotland.”

‘Ask and Act’ – advice.scot

The West Granton Housing Co-operative administers £260,000 in grant funding for Get Settled ARCHIE services via seven housing associations who are members of the Alliance of Registered Co-operatives and Housing Associations, Independent in Edinburgh (ARCHIE).

New Homes Released at East Lothian’s Longniddry Village

Limited time £10,000 incentives bundle available on new apartments

Five-star Scottish housebuilder Cruden Homes has released more homes for sale at its multi-award-winning Longniddry Village development in East Lothian with prices from £290,000.

The latest release is across five plots, namely three two-bedroom apartments, available to move in from November and two four-bedroom properties which will be complete by early 2026. 

To further entice buyers, Cruden is offering a limited-time package of huge savings on the apartments with £5,000 cashback and a further £5,000 options voucher to make a new house at Longniddry a dream home. 

Longniddry Village takes inspiration from the characterful architecture and appeal of quaint East Lothian villages and towns. Its local vernacular and carefully considered landscape design seamlessly extends into the existing vibrant village community. 

The traditionally inspired architecture includes period-style features such as sash windows, chimneys and high ceilings.

Meanwhile, the interior accommodation is spacious and airy, complete with high-quality fixtures and fittings that include designer German kitchens with integrated Siemens appliances, built-in wardrobes, stylish bathrooms and fibre broadband.

When complete, the development will include several features for residents to enjoy, including a play park, sports pitch, restored mill pond and wildflower meadow.

New owners will also benefit from the neighbouring steadings restoration, which will be a hub for several amenities including an independent coffee outlet, a luxury convenience store and salon.

Hazel Davies, Sales and Marketing Director of Cruden Homes, said: “It’s great to extend the new home options available to discerning buyers at our Longniddry Village development, whether they’re taking their first step on the property ladder or looking for more space to grow.

“The added incentives for our range of apartments make now the perfect time to move.

“This has been an incredibly popular development, with previous launches selling out ahead of plan. We would advise potential home buyers to book a viewing as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.”

Find out more and register your interest at: 

www.cruden.co.uk/homes/developments/longniddry-village-phase-2

Or for more information on other current developments, visit:

 www.cruden.co.uk/homes. 

McEwan development completed in Fountainbridge

Moda and Apache Capital’s The McEwan development completes with 139 new homes and amenities at the city’s top rated rental neighbourhood

Moda, The McEwan, the 476-home rental neighbourhood in Edinburgh’s historic Fountainbridge district has marked the completion of its final phase.

Located on the site of the former McEwan’s Brewery, Moda, The McEwan is rated the number one BTR neighbourhood in the city on BTR review site Homeviews, with 139 new homes opening the doors to their new residents. 

Spanning 140,000 sq ft, the completed development offers 15,000 sq ft of best-in-class amenities, including a 24/7 gym and fitness centre, private dining room, co-working spaces, cinema room, and rooftop terraces with sweeping views of Edinburgh Castle – all included as part of the monthly rent.

Additionally, all Moda residents benefit from access to the MyModa app from day one, allowing them to connect with neighbours, message the concierge, and book exclusive events and services from a tap on their phone. 

Located in the heart of the capital, The McEwan is conveniently located within walking distance of Haymarket station, the city centre and several major universities, offering excellent connectivity for residents studying or working in Edinburgh.

The development was also the first building in Europe to achieve the highest, 3-star Fitwel rating, demonstrating Moda’s commitment to maximising the health and wellbeing of its residents and the wider Edinburgh community.

The neighbourhood was the first development in Scotland to be brought forward by Moda and its funding partner Apache Capital with its investors Harrison Street and NFU Mutual. Robertson Construction Central East has completed the final phase of the remaining 139 high-quality rental homes.

These add to the existing mix of studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, ideal for a mixed demographic who make renting their tenure of choice.

Delivery of the neighbourhood’s second phase generated £32.8m of social, local and economic value, with almost £17m spend with SMEs and £18m spent with a local supply chain.

The build generated 419 weeks of on-site apprenticeship training, with 244 local people employed on the site. Robertson also achieved the highest possible Considerate Constructors Scheme score while on site, with a 45/45.

Both phases of the neighbourhood were funded by Apache Capital with its investors Harrison Street and NFU Mutual.

Delivered in partnership with Robertson, the neighbourhood is a key part of the wider regeneration of Fountainbridge, set to revitalise a historic part of Edinburgh with new homes, public spaces, and opportunities for the local community.

With practical completion now achieved, the new homes already have their first residents in situ.

Tony Brooks, Executive Chairman at Moda Living said: “Reaching practical completion at Moda, The McEwan is a landmark moment, and we’re grateful to Robertson, Apache Capital and its investment partners and other stakeholders for helping to deliver the second phase of this fantastic neighbourhood.

 “We’re proud to be playing a role in the regeneration of Fountainbridge and to be welcoming residents into this already dynamic community, designed with health, wellbeing and community in mind, that makes it more than an apartment but a home.”

Jamie Snary, Executive Director Asset Management and Operations at Apache Capital said: “The McEwan is another exemplar BTR asset forming part of our prime regional portfolio, bringing another 139 homes into operation adding to the 6,000 units which are either operational or in the development pipeline.

“Alongside welcoming our new residents we have also secured the first commercial occupiers including a convenience-led retailer which will be opening imminently.”

Elliot Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Robertson Group, said: “Working closely with Moda, we’ve brought new life to a once underused part of the city to create a thriving neighbourhood that has become a welcome addition to Edinburgh.

“This project gave us the opportunity to demonstrate our expertise in operating safely in complex, busy environments while not compromising the quality standards that Robertson is known for.

“A real focus of our approach was to ensure that we provided long-lasting benefits for the local economy and community throughout construction. It’s fantastic that we achieved this by supporting local suppliers, creating jobs, and offering apprenticeships that will help build skills for the future.”

Are heating upgrades leaving pensioners behind?

Housing association calls for pragmatic approach to innovation

EFFORTS to modernise heating systems across Scotland’s housing stock risk failing the very people they are designed to support – unless lived experience is put at the heart of decision-making.

That’s the warning from one of Scotland’s leading housing associations, which is using a combination of technology trials, resident feedback and real-world data to challenge top-down assumptions about sustainable heating.

Hanover Scotland, which operates more than 200 developments across the country, is calling for a more nuanced and realistic approach to heating innovation.

While committed to the transition to net zero, the housing provider says current solutions often don’t account for the unique challenges faced by older residents living in supported environments.

Angela Currie, Chief Executive of Hanover Scotland, said: “Net zero goals must not come at the cost of resident wellbeing. When an 84-year-old is unable to get the level of heat in their home that they need, we’re no longer talking about sustainability, we’re talking about safety.”

At the centre of Hanover’s approach is an honest reappraisal of legacy communal heating systems, once considered reliable and cost-effective, but now increasingly out of step with residents’ expectations for control, transparency and value.  It is vital that we consider solutions that limit disruption, avoid stress, and have operating functions that are easy to understand and make sense.

Through a series of live trials, the organisation is equipping homes with performance sensors, enabling data to be collected from multiple flats within a development. This information is then cross-referenced with resident feedback and energy use, helping to expose the gulf between theoretical models and lived experience.

Our survey information and honest and practical feedback from our valued residents will help us to better understand our older residents thinking as their needs are at the heart of every decision we make.

Angela argues that assumptions about efficiency are often based on averages and hypotheticals. She added: “What works on paper doesn’t always work in practice, especially for older residents who may be more vulnerable to temperature changes or who use their heating in traditional ways.

Typically, Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) deliver slower heat as the water is heat to an average of between 35 – 55 degrees and provides a more gradual steady heat where electric or gas fuelled heaters deliver instant heat to a higher temperature, often 70 – 80 degrees. All of these variances need to be understood and considered.

“There’s a risk in rushing to adopt solutions that haven’t been designed with our residents or specific housing types in mind.”

Where renewable technologies on new build projects are able to go through a forward planned detailed design and feasibility process, retro-fit projects do not have the same luxury. Often, they have to be more re-active, trying hard to find ways of incorporating new technology into older buildings, this mix is not always feasible, practical or achievable for some of the following reasons:

  • Older electrical supply infrastructure may need upgrading to support ASHP loads.
  • Existing heating systems such as electric storage heaters or gas boilers may be incompatible.
  • Older radiators in existing facilities are often undersized for lower temperature ASHP’s.
  • Sheltered housing often has limited space externally for ASHP units.
  • Internal plant room space is restrictive for buffer tanks or hot water cylinders.
  • Older buildings may have poor insulation making heat pumps less efficient.

Although widely promoted as a silver bullet, heat pumps have emerged as one of the technologies that require a more thoughtful introduction. While low-carbon and efficient in theory, they are designed to maintain a consistent, low-level background heat – a fundamental shift from traditional systems that switch on and off at scheduled times, or offer a ‘boost’ option.  Hanover’s trials show that it’s not the technology itself that poses a problem, but the difficulty some residents face in adapting long-held routines and expectations to a very different way of heating their homes.

Designed to maintain a constant low temperature rather than respond quickly to on/off scheduling or boost commands, they can challenge residents’ expectations and habits.

Angela said: “The technology itself is not the issue. The real challenge lies in helping our residents – many of whom have used the same heating routines for decades – to understand and adapt to a completely different way of managing warmth in their homes.

“This isn’t about rejecting progress. It’s about ensuring new systems are introduced with the right support and context. Our sector should not be a passive recipient of technology – it should lead from the front, shaping solutions that genuinely meet the needs of our residents.”

Hanover Scotland has empowered independence for over 40 years by providing safe, secure social housing that allows residents to live fulfilling, independent lives.

Focused on innovation and sustainability, the expert team at Hanover Scotland develops new models of social housing, care, and support while achieving value for money as a trusted, credible partner in urban renewal projects.

To find out more about Hanover Scotland, visit: https://www.hanover.scot/

Firethorn Trust tops out PBSA development in Leith Walk

Real estate investor, developer and asset manager, Firethorn Trust, has reached a significant construction milestone at its purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) development at Leith, Edinburgh, with a topping out ceremony marking completion of the site’s structural framework.

Located on Leith Walk, Firethorn’s six-storey asset will provide high quality accommodation for 230 student beds, alongside generous amenities including a fully equipped gym, student common room, cinema and modern study spaces.

Work commenced last summer, following Firethorn’s purchase of the site in February 2024, marking the first acquisition under its Living portfolio. The company has since expanded its footprint with additional PBSA assets in Hackney Wick and Stratford, plus a hotel development in central Dublin and the One Bessborough Gardens residential conversion in London.

With the structural frame now complete, Leith Walk is on track for completion in time for the 2026/27 academic year.

Paul Martin, Head of Development at Firethorn Trust, commented: “As the first asset within our Living portfolio, topping out at Leith Walk is a significant milestone for Firethorn, and a prime example of our ability to deliver buildings swiftly and to a high standard.

“Edinburgh has a growing student population and an urgent need for modern, quality accommodation, so we are very pleased with the pace at which works are progressing and look forward to bringing the site to completion over the next 12 months.”

Grier Edmead, Operations Director, Ogilvie Construction, said: “Today’s topping out marks the significant progress that we have made since breaking ground last year, and we look forward to handing over a first class building in 2026.

“This will be the fifteenth student accommodation facility that we have delivered in recent years using our extensive experience and expertise in the sector.”

For more information, visit www.firethorntrust.com

Plans submitted to transform Leith’s ‘iconic’ Cables Wynd House and Linksview House

The City of Edinburgh Council’s retrofit project has taken a major step forward this month with the submission of a planning application by Collective Architecture.

Built in the 1960s and now designated as Category A listed buildings, Cables Wynd House and Linksview House collectively provide 310 homes, the majority of which are owned by the Council for social rent.

These landmark buildings have served generations of residents, and this project represents a significant investment in securing their future as safe, high-quality homes.

The proposed works are being driven by the need to meet the Scottish Government’s Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing – EESSH2.

Achieving compliance will require substantial upgrades to both the building fabric and mechanical systems. Alongside this, the Council has identified the opportunity to deliver wider improvements that will bring the buildings in line with modern new-build standards.

Key elements of the proposal include:

  • Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Improved insulation, window replacements, and energy-efficient heating systems to meet EESSH2 standards.
  • Fire Safety Enhancements: Installation of sprinkler systems, smoke ventilation, a new fire-fighting lift, and improved fire compartmentalisation in communal areas. The removal of legacy bin chutes and inclusion of internal waste management facilities will also contribute to enhanced fire safety.
  • Resident Safety and Security: Upgraded internal and external lighting, a comprehensive review of CCTV systems, and improved access control throughout the buildings.
  • Landscape and Placemaking Improvements: The refurbishment project presents a unique opportunity to reimagine the outdoor environment surrounding both towers. Proposals include new play areas, external seating, wildflower meadows, sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS), and a full review of parking and waste facilities.

Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener Lezley Marion Cameron said: “I am delighted that the proposals for the Council’s £69 million investment in Cables Wynd House and Linksview House have now been submitted to the CEC Planning Service, setting out our plans to make our residents’ homes safer, more comfortable and more energy efficient.  

“Cables Wynd and Linksview House residents have long campaigned for this much needed and substantive investment in their homes to happen.  

“Their influence and input into our consultation sessions have shaped these proposals and is hugely valued.  I look forward to continuing this positive engagement with Cables Wynd and Linksview House residents and Leith Ward Councillors as the project progresses.”

Carl Baker, Architect, Certified Passivhaus Designer – Collective Architecture said: “Collective Architecture is proud to be working with The City of Edinburgh Council on the retrofit of Cables Wynd House and Linksview House.

“Our proposals place residents at the heart of the process, aiming to provide greener, warmer homes, while celebrating and sensitively enhancing the unique character of the Category A listed buildings.

“As part of a just transition, our carefully considered interventions will improve the thermal and environmental performance of the iconic structures – boosting energy efficiency and alleviating the risk of fuel poverty.

“As with many of our projects, meaningful resident engagement has been central to the design process and will remain a key focus through the final design stage and into construction.”

Subject to planning approval, the Council will continue to engage closely with residents throughout the design and construction process, ensuring their needs remain at the heart of the project.

New Show Home unveiled at Cruden Homes’ luxury retirement development in Barnton

Cruden Homes has launched a striking new show home at The Avenue, its award-winning luxury retirement development located in the prestigious Edinburgh suburb of Barnton.

Designed exclusively for retirees, this boutique-style community offers discerning buyers the chance to experience the refined lifestyle on offer in one of the capital’s most desirable locations.

Set amid landscaped grounds overlooking the Royal Burgess Golf Course, The Avenue comprises a carefully curated collection of energy-efficient apartments, penthouses, and executive villas.

Each property features between one and three bedrooms, all finished to a high specification with quality fixtures and fittings as standard. With generous ceiling heights and expansive windows, homes are bathed in natural light and designed to maximise space and comfort.

The newly opened show home – a beautifully appointed two-bedroom apartment – showcases The Avenue’s hallmark blend of understated luxury and thoughtful design.

The interior, styled by Get Fully Furnished, features a large open-plan kitchen, dining and living area ideal for entertaining, a spacious master suite with en-suite bathroom, a stylish guest bedroom, and a contemporary main bathroom.

Elegant finishes and premium materials lend the home the sophisticated air of a boutique hotel.

Beyond individual homes, residents benefit from a range of lifestyle-focused amenities including stylish communal areas, established gardens, a residents’ lounge, guest suite for visitors, and a concierge service – all designed to promote ease, connection, and independence.

Further enhancing the living experience, Cruden Homes has partnered with The Senior Move Partnership and Glenmore Mobility to support new residents.

Buyers can access a complimentary two-hour relocation consultation, alongside tailored in-home mobility assessments and product recommendations to ensure continued comfort and accessibility.

Hazel Davies, Sales and Marketing Director at Cruden Homes, said: “The Avenue offers a truly unique lifestyle for independent retirees, combining the luxury and convenience of a boutique hotel with the independence of your own home.

“It’s been a joy to watch this community flourish. This stunning new show home offers a glimpse of the exceptional design, quality and vibrant community spirit that make The Avenue so special.”

Private viewings of the new show home are now available by appointment.

Alternatively drop-ins appointments are available Tuesday to Friday, from 11am – 5pm.

For further information or to arrange a visit, contact the Cruden Homes sales team or visit: www.theavenuebarnton.co.uk

City Council: Taking big steps towards solving housing emergency

Councillor Mandy Watt, Depute Leader and Finance and Resources Convener, writes:

As Edinburgh continues to grow, one of the most pressing issues we face is the shortage of affordable housing.

We’ve seen demand for homes increase year after year, but at the same time housing costs keep rising. The city’s supply of social housing and the grant funding we receive from the Scottish Government to build new homes just hasn’t kept pace with demand.

We’re working to tackle this housing emergency by both building homes and buying them. With around 5,500 households in temporary accommodation every night because of homelessness, we’ve set a target to significantly improve housing and to source homes quickly, within the means that we have.

Edinburgh continues to be the lowest funded local authority in Scotland per head of population, and currently has fewer council-owned homes, so we need to do things differently from other councils.

In the same way that homebuyers need a mortgage, borrowing has become a vital and standard part of our financial planning when we buy or build homes. It’s the most straightforward way to overcome the shortfall in our grant funding.

At the same time, we’re also continuing to make considerable investment in net zero energy improvements to existing council homes and retrofitting buildings because we need them to be more sustainable and in good condition. This too is supported by capital borrowing.

While our debt levels remain prudent, and in line with our income and spend, our financial planning in this area is enabling us to fund the regeneration the city needs. We’re using this approach to build and extend schools for the next generation, restore important structures like the North Bridge and create new communities, like the Granton Waterfront.

We’ve also taken a big step this week towards finding a solution for the existing community on Dreghorn Estate, and it’s an excellent example of the power of well-managed borrowing.

At a special meeting of our Finance and Resources Committee on Monday, we agreed in principle to purchase 38 homes from the Ministry of Defence for £6.65 million, using a mix of funding from the Scottish Government housing grant together with long-term loans. Rental income, over the life of the properties, will cover the borrowing costs.

If agreed at Full Council, this purchase will secure the futures of families already living on the estate, and it will also provide us with an already thriving community for other council tenants to move into.

This is a huge step towards a positive outcome – a fantastic example of doing things differently to make sure we address our housing emergency – and I know residents are very grateful that this proposal has had so much support from councillors.

This article first appeared in the Edinburgh Evening News on 11 June 2025

Spending Review: Biggest boost to social and affordable housing investment in a generation

The Chancellor is today [WEDNESDAY 11 JUNE] expected to announce the biggest boost to social and affordable housing investment in a generation. 

As part of the Spending Review Rachel Reeves is expected to confirm £39 billion for a new Affordable Homes Programme over 10 years.  This will turbocharge the Plan for Change commitment to get Britain building and deliver the 1.5 million homes this country needs. 

This investment will be significantly higher than what the previous government spent on affordable housing. The last five year 2021-26 programme was only £11.5bn, averaging £2.3bn per year. 

This means the government will be spending almost double this on affordable housing investment by the end of this Parliament (£4bn in 2029/30). 

This is the first time in living memory that the government has set out a programme that provides ten years of certainty. This provides the sector with the confidence to deliver for now and the future, making it easier for those on low incomes to access a safe, high-quality home. 

This comes on top of a ten-year social rent settlement that will set a rent policy for social housing from 2026 that enables providers to borrow and invest in new and existing homes, while also protecting social housing tenants. This ten year settlement will see rents rise at CPI+1% from 2026, alongside a consultation to follow shortly on how to implement social rent convergence.  

It also builds on ambitious reforms to the planning system that the Government has already announced, which were judged by the OBR to add £6.8bn to the economy and boost housebuilding to its highest level in 40 years by 2029/30. 

A government spokesperson said:  “The Government is investing in Britain’s renewal, so working people are better off.

“We’re turning the tide against the unacceptable housing crisis in this country with the biggest boost to social and affordable housing investment in a generation, delivering on our Plan for Change commitment to get Britain building.” 

RACHEL REEVES: “WE ARE INVESTING IN BRITAIN’S RENEWAL”

  • Chancellor vows to ‘invest in Britain’s renewal’ as she lays out the Government’s Spending Review.
  • Reeves to announce the Government’s plans to invest in Britain’s security, health and economy to make working people better off. 
  • Billions of pounds of new capital investment will boost British business and create British jobs to kickstart economic growth and drive up living standards in line with the Plan for Change, including the biggest ever local transport investment in England’s city regions outside of London and the South East.

The Chancellor will today publish the Government’s Spending Review to ‘invest in Britain’s renewal’ as she vows to make all parts of the country better off.

Rachel Reeves will announce plans for billions of pounds of investment in projects across the United Kingdom that will create jobs, prosperity, and put more money in people’s pockets.

The Chancellor will say detailed spending plans come after the Autumn Budget and Spring Statement fixed the foundations of our economy to deliver stability, outlining: “The choices in this Spending Review are possible only because of the stability I have introduced and the choices I took in the Autumn.”

The Chancellor will confirm the Government’s commitment to delivering for every part of Britain, by announcing reforms that will guarantee towns and cities outside London and the South East can benefit from new investment. This will include the biggest ever local transport infrastructure investment in England’s city regions, which will truly connect people to opportunities that improve their quality of life, a key objective of the Government’s Plan for Change.

Ms Reeves is also expected to spell out the Government’s plans to invest in the British people’s priorities of security, health and economy.

The Spending Review comes on the back of the Government’s announcements in recent days to invest £15.6 billion in local transport projects, £86 billion to boost science and technology, and create ten thousand jobs by building Sizewell C Nuclear Power Station – which will drive forward Britain’s status as a clean energy superpower, as outlined in the Plan for Change. 

Speaking in the House of Commons, the Chancellor is expected to say: “This Government is renewing Britain. But I know too many people in too many parts of the country are yet to feel it. 

“This Government’s task – my task – and the purpose of this Spending Review – is to change that. To ensure that renewal is felt in people’s everyday lives, their jobs, their communities. 

“So that people can see a doctor when when they need one. Know that they are secure at work. And feel safe on their local high street.

“The priorities in this Spending Review are the priorities of working people. To invest in our country’s security, health and economy so working people all over our country are better off. That is what this Spending Review will deliver.”

She will add: “I have made my choices. In place of chaos, I choose stability. In place of decline, I choose investment. In place of retreat, I choose national renewal. 

“These are my choices. These are this Government’s choices. These are the British people’s choices.”