Scottish Cities Alliance

Following a landmark appearance at UKREiiF 2025, Scotland’s eight cities united to showcase their ambition, innovation, and investment potential at the UK’s largest real estate and infrastructure event. With over 16,000 attendees, 275+ local authorities, and 1250+ speakers, the event was a powerful platform for collaboration and forward-thinking dialogue.

Among the many themes explored, housing emerged as a central priority, a cornerstone for inclusive growth, sustainability, and economic resilience across Scotland’s urban centres.

Why Housing Matters

Housing is more than shelter, it is the foundation of healthy, vibrant, and equitable communities. Here is why it is at the heart of Scotland’s urban strategy:

Health and Wellbeing

Good quality, warm, and secure housing contributes directly to physical and mental health. In a post-COVID world, mental health challenges are more prevalent than ever. According to NHS Research Scotland, one in four people in Scotland will experience a mental health issue in their lifetime. Secure housing reduces stress, improves wellbeing, and lessens reliance on the NHS, which in turn will create a healthier, more productive population.

Tackling Poverty and Inequality

Mixed-tenure housing strategies help address social disparities. While Scotland’s cities report lower child poverty rates than other UK regions, there is still work to be done. Affordable housing is a key lever in reducing poverty and promoting social mobility.

Economic Recovery and Job Creation

Housing development fuels job creation, not just in construction, but across the supply chain. It also stimulates local economies and supports long-term recovery efforts.

Environmental Sustainability

Innovative housing solutions, like retrofitting and energy-efficient builds are helping support Scotland’s climate goals. These efforts reduce carbon emissions, lower energy bills, and foster community cohesion through placemaking and green infrastructure.

City Spotlights: Progress in Action

Perth

Perth and Kinross Council is delivering on its Local Housing Strategy (2022–2027) with impressive results:

• 243 new homes for affordable social rent
• 116 ex-Council homes repurchased to boost stock
• 1,413 households supported in sustaining tenancies
• £491,700 invested in accessibility adaptations
• 880 households received energy efficiency advice

These initiatives are tackling homelessness, improving independence, and reducing carbon footprints.

Stirling

Stirling is unlocking a prime residential site near the railway station as part of the Forthside Masterplan, with potential for:

• 120 mixed-tenure homes
• Commercial and public space development
• Sustainable infrastructure

Councillor Gerry McGarvey called it “one of the most exciting regeneration opportunities in Scotland.”

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is nearing completion of Phase 1 of the Port of Leith, transforming it into a vibrant waterfront community:

• 154 new homes (affordable and private) by FM Group, which is to be built on a former long-term brownfield site
• Part of an £80 million development with 373 homes and commercial units

This regeneration is a model for urban renewal and sustainable growth.

Glasgow

Glasgow’s new Tall Buildings Policy is unlocking vertical development in key areas like Charing Cross and Cowcaddens:

• Encourages high-density housing
• Attracts investment and skilled workforce
• Enhances the city skyline and urban identity

The Role of the Scottish Cities Alliance

The Scottish Cities Alliance continues to be a driving force behind collaborative urban development. By aligning strategies across all eight cities, the Alliance is fostering innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth – ensuring that housing remains a central pillar of Scotland’s future. The momentum from UKREiiF 2025 shows that Scotland’s cities are ready to lead the way. Through strategic investment, community engagement, and bold planning.