An electricity company in northern Scotland, SSEN Transmission, has made a commitment to assist in the construction of 1,000 homes in the region. This initiative is part of the company’s plan to carry out improvement work across its network in the upcoming years. SSEN Transmission will be collaborating with local authorities, social landlords, and housing organizations to build homes to accommodate its workforce during the projects.
The firm has stated that once the projects are completed, the homes will be maintained as a “legacy”. While SSEN Transmission is covering the development costs for the properties, the homes will be leased from the principal contractors for the duration that they are used as worker housing. Approximately 400 homes are expected to be built in the Highland Council area and another 400 in Aberdeenshire.
This announcement comes at a crucial time as Scotland has been facing a housing emergency with a rise in homelessness and a slowdown in the housebuilding sector. Rob McDonald, the managing director of SSEN Transmission, emphasized the significance of this initiative in addressing the housing challenges in northern Scotland. He mentioned that discussions are ongoing with various stakeholders regarding the location and scale of potential projects, with further announcements expected in the coming months.
The housing minister, Paul McLennan, also welcomed this move, highlighting the importance of providing good quality housing to attract and retain people in communities. He expressed support for the initiative, stating that these homes will not only benefit the workers involved in upgrading the local energy infrastructure but will also leave a lasting legacy across the region.
In alignment with its Pathway to 2030 program, SSEN Transmission is investing £20 billion by the end of the decade to enhance the network in northern Scotland. This commitment to creating a housing legacy reflects the company’s dedication to making a positive impact in the communities where its infrastructure is located. By working closely with partners and stakeholders, SSEN Transmission aims to deliver sustainable housing solutions that will benefit local communities for generations to come.
