The number of long term empty properties and second homes in Scotland rose in the latest year by 1,260 to 65,277, the third consecutive annual increase.

That’s according to the latest Quarterly Housing Statistics for Scotland from Scotland’s Chief Statistician.

The latest statistics also show a total of 21,403 new homes were completed in 2019, a rise of 18% or 3,210 more homes than in 2018.

The increase in completed homes was seen from both the private sector and housing associations.

Work to build 23,700 new homes was also started in year to June 2019, up 22% on 2018 figures, while nearly 11,000 affordable homes were started in the period to September 2019.

Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said: “These figures demonstrate how we are delivering more housing in Scotland. 

“From private to social housing, it is encouraging that both new build starts and completions have increased this year, providing more people with a warm, safe place they can call home.

“The increase points to the strength of Scotland’s new build housing sector.

“We shall continue to push towards our ambitious target of delivering 50,000 affordable homes by 2021.”