Co-Housing the Homeless with the Holidayers.
A Business Proposal
About us.
What are we doing?
In the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, a unique vision is taking shape—one that seeks to harmonise tourism and address homelessness within this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our proposal leverages the interplay between homelessness and tourism to forge a win-win socioeconomic relationship. This relationship brings together tourists eager to explore new destinations, individuals transitioning through homelessness who need independent living skills and positive social interactions, and a local authority grappling with a housing crisis and rising homelessness rates.
Understanding the Core Issue.
Our research originated from observing a positive correlation between rising homelessness figures and seasonal fluctuations in tourism. Edinburgh, as Scotland’s most visited tourist destination and a city facing a severe and persistent homelessness crisis, provides the perfect backdrop for this comprehensive study. Our team meticulously mapped visible instances of homelessness in Edinburgh’s Old Town, revealing significant overlap between areas with high tourism infrastructure and visible homelessness. Two primary axes were identified: the Tourist Axis along the Royal Mile and the Institutional Axis encompassing Cowgate and Grassmarket, known for their service hubs, judiciary courts, morgues, and homeless hostels.
Historical Context and Present Reality.
This duality, famously described by Edinburgh-born author Robert Louis Stevenson, is deeply ingrained in the city’s fabric. Our research indicates that the relationship between tourism and homelessness is not merely coincidental but causal. Legal obligations mandate local authorities to provide temporary accommodation within 47 days to those presenting as homeless and to ensure it is suitable within seven days. Edinburgh’s insufficient council-owned housing stock has forced the city to rely heavily on privately owned units to meet demand, particularly during peak tourism seasons.
Quantifying the Crisis.
The impact of tourism on homelessness is evident when comparing quarterly data on temporary accommodation against tourist accommodation occupancy. During peak tourism periods, the lack of available private accommodation for temporary housing forces individuals into unsuitable conditions or worse, onto the streets. In 2022 alone, Edinburgh City Council breached the Unsuitable Accommodation Order 1,428 times.
The Co-Housing Proposal.
Our co-housing model envisions a Community Interest Company (CIC) Housing Association funded by national government grants, local council funding, and private investment. The development
would provide affordable homes, with 70% designated for social rent and 10% for tourist accommodation. This tourist accommodation would levy the Visitor Levy, with funds directed towards the building’s upkeep, rent arrears of social renters, and as income to support the business model.
Innovative and Proven Concepts.
The concept of co-housing, where tourists and long-term homeless individuals share space, may seem unconventional but has precedents. Hostels, a popular form of tourist accommodation, often house long-term homeless individuals without the guests’ knowledge. Our model would make this arrangement transparent, offering a social and supportive environment for those transitioning out of homelessness. In the UK, co-housing models have begun to emerge, although none have specifically addressed homelessness yet.
Addressing Support Needs.
Over 50% of homeless households in Scotland have an identified support need, with many related to living skills. Our proposal integrates shared communal facilities, enabling residents to develop essential skills such as cooking and socialising within a supportive community. This approach aligns with Housing First, which emphasises providing housing as a first step while also recognising the importance of community support for long-term stability.
Funding and Sustainability.
Scotland’s current model for social and affordable housing relies on 55% council funding and 45% private funding. A CIC Housing Association could access additional funding sources like the National Lottery Community Fund and the Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme, easing the financial burden on local councils. Despite ambitious targets set by Housing to 2040, recent budget cuts and a national freeze on council tax have compounded challenges, making innovative funding models like ours crucial.
A Bold Vision for the Future.
In conclusion, our proposal represents a bold and innovative approach to tackling homelessness in Edinburgh’s Old Town. By leveraging tourism, integrating social support, and securing diverse funding sources, we aim to create a sustainable and inclusive community with a new model of blended ownership. This comprehensive approach not only addresses immediate housing needs but also fosters long-term stability and social cohesion, embodying a vision where everyone has a place to call home.
John Smith
The Problem.
The rising costs of temporary accommodation in Scotland are a pressing concern for local authorities and the government. Despite having some of the UK’s strongest homelessness protections, Scottish councils have spent over £160m on temporary accommodation in the last financial year, a 50% increase over three years. This is despite the fact that Scottish councils have been required to have a rapid rehousing transition plan in place to reduce time spent in temporary accommodation to a minimum since 2018.
The reasons for this increase are complex and multifaceted. Insufficient housing supply to meet demand, increased homelessness applications, changes in government policy and legislation, and lack of funding and resources for local authorities are all contributing factors. For example, East Renfrewshire Council experienced a 1,395% increase in spending on temporary accommodation over the past four years, citing factors such as higher mortgage defaults and evictions, low numbers of stock and slow turnover, fast-tracked asylum claims, and humanitarian crises in Ukraine and Syria.
Similarly, Edinburgh had the next largest percentage increase, with spending rising by 193%. Jane Meagher, portfolio holder for housing and homelessness at City of Edinburgh Council, attributed this to the fact that “fundamentally, we don’t have sufficient housing to meet the accommodation needs of this growing city”. The Scottish capital has the lowest percentage of social rented homes in the country, while market rents rose 16% between 2022 and 2023, higher than any other UK city.
West Lothian Council faced a 164% rise over three years, citing a lack of adequate resources, legislative changes adding additional duties, and demand from refugee schemes as people are given the right to remain and access housing. Glasgow City Council spent £19.2m on temporary
accommodation in the first five months of this financial year, putting it on course to be its highest spending yet.
The Scottish government has promised to include anti-homelessness duties for landlords in a new housing bill, due to be published later this year. However, since councils are struggling to meet their existing legal duties, whether local authorities will be able to deliver them is another matter. “Local authorities are feeling really embattled,” says Dr Beth Watts-Cobbe, senior research fellow at the Institute for Social Policy, Housing, Equalities Research at HeriotWatt University. “And the layering on top of more and more ambitious and onerous legal duties and requirements on them without requisite funding and support and without recognising those localised challenges is, I think, really starting to bite.”
Some say that achieving a cut in temporary accommodation means looking at new options. For example, Dr WattsCobbe suggests allowing local authorities to rehouse people into other forms of stable, suitable accommodation, not just social housing. This proposal faces opposition from other parts of the homelessness sector, who are worried it could weaken people’s rights.
Scotland’s temporary accommodation challenges cannot be divorced from the fact that social housing supply is insufficient to meet demand. Given the Scottish government’s decision in December to cut the budget for its Affordable Homes Supply Programme by 26% for 2024-25, councils’ temporary accommodation bills are only likely to rise in the coming years. As Alison Watson, director of Shelter Scotland, notes: “There is undoubtedly a housing emergency in Scotland and a chronic over-reliance on temporary accommodation is one of the many ways in which it manifests.”
£49M
EDINBURGH’S TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATION SPEND, 2022-2023.
+31%
EDINBURGH’S ANNUAL PERCENTAGE CHANGE IN SPENDING ON TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATION.
ACTIVE AIRBNB UNITS IN THE CITY CENTRE. ~2,700
VACANT HOMES ACROSS EDINBURGH. 10.5K
The Tourist Tax.
Scotland is set to introduce the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Bill this year, which will impose a tourist tax on visitors. Crucially, however, they plan to reinvest proceeds towards further tourist infrastructure - rather than underfunded local authorities.
Edinburgh, a city renowned for its historic charm and cultural richness, is facing the challenges of balancing its identity as a tourist destination with the needs of its local residents. The proposed tourist tax has sparked controversy as it aims to generate ~£40m revenue from the city’s millions of visitors each year. However, the decision to reinvest the profits into tourist infrastructure rather than addressing underfunded local issues has raised concerns about the city’s priorities.
By allocating the funds into tourist infrastructure, Edinburgh risks perpetuating a cycle of poorly allocated funding that prioritises the interests of tourists over those of the local community. The city’s resources are being drained to support an industry that presents a polished image of Edinburgh, while long-term residents struggle with rising living costs and a housing crisis. This approach may lead to further gentrification, displacement of residents, and erosion of community identity, ultimately deepening societal inequalities within the city.
This proposal’s suggestion that the City of Edinburgh council could use their right to tweak the wording of the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Bill to allocate a portion of the tax revenue to homelessness services and
other local infrastructure is little more than a token gesture. It’s a Band-Aid solution to a much larger problem, but it is a step in the right direction.
Reinvesting the profits from the tourist tax into infrastructure catering to tourists may have negative consequences for both residents and visitors. The city’s focus on tourism development could lead to overtourism, overcrowding, and degradation of public spaces, resembling the challenges faced by UNESCO World Heritage cities like Venice. Such consequences not only detract from the visitor experience but also create tensions between locals and tourists, exacerbating existing social divides within the community.
Edinburgh’s proposed tourist tax represents a missed opportunity to address the city’s pressing social issues and prioritise the well-being of its residents. The decision to prioritise tourism development over investing in the needs of local communities reflects a short-sighted approach that neglects the long-term sustainability of the city. It is crucial for Edinburgh to rethink its strategy and realign its priorities to ensure a more equitable distribution of resources and support for all residents, rather than favouring the interests of tourists.
The Proposal.
Co-Housing the homeless with the holidayers to create a new model of blended ownership that provides economic relief for a council, positive social interactions for homeless individuals, all the while preserving Edinburgh’s authentic self for the visiting tourist.
As we explore innovative solutions to address the pressing issue of affordable housing in Scotland, we believe that the visitor levy presents a unique opportunity to catalyse a council-led cooperative development project. By leveraging this revenue stream, we can create a sustainable and thriving community that not only provides much-needed housing but also generates income, employment opportunities, and community benefits. Our proposal is to establish a council-led cooperative development, utilising compulsory purchase of vacant properties and sites, and co-funding of the build through public-private partnering. This collaborative approach will enable the development of a mixed-use project, featuring
council-owned rented units, private residential units, AirBnB rentals, and lettable commercial spaces such as cafés, laundrettes, and offices. The private elements will be sold on the open market, generating revenue for the project.
One of the key advantages of this approach is the ability to specify higher fees and higher renewable energy contributions, which will reduce energy running costs and alleviate fuel poverty. In addition, the project will feature shared facilities such as a community laundry room, lettable offices, and a community family room for visitors, which will increase the overall value of the development and provide additional benefits to residents. The visitor levy will
play a crucial role in funding this project, providing a steady stream of revenue that can be reinvested in the next redevelopment project as well as community projects. This approach will enable the council to achieve its goals of providing affordable housing while also generating revenue and creating employment opportunities.
The benefits of this project are multifaceted. The development will provide much-needed affordable housing units, which will help alleviate the housing crisis in Scotland. The private elements of the project will generate income through sales and rentals, which can be reinvested in the project or used for community benefits. The development will also create
employment opportunities during construction and operation, benefiting local residents. The shared facilities and community projects will provide additional benefits to residents, enhancing their overall quality of life. The project will also incorporate renewable energy sources and reduce energy running costs, alleviating fuel poverty and promoting sustainability.
To achieve this vision, we propose conducting a feasibility study to identify suitable vacant properties and sites. We will engage with local stakeholders and community groups to gather input and feedback on the proposed project. A detailed business plan will be developed outlining the project’s financials, timeline, and milestones. Funding will be secured through public-private partnering and co-funding arrangements. A council-led cooperative development company will be established to manage the project. A comprehensive marketing
strategy will be developed to promote the project’s private elements. Energy-efficient designs and renewable energy systems will be implemented throughout the development. Finally, we will monitor and evaluate the project’s progress, ensuring that it remains on track to meet its objectives.
In conclusion, we believe that this proposal offers a unique opportunity to leverage the visitor levy to fund a sustainable housing and community project that benefits both residents and the wider community. By working together with public-private partners, we can create a thriving community that showcases innovative solutions to Scotland’s housing challenges.
i.This will create a new model of blended ownership and economic activity, that is currently excluded from typical social housing developments.
The Private Client
The proposal relies upon Public-Private Partnership (PPP) as its contractual framework, and this private involvement is a key underpinning factor of the financial model. In this instance, the proposed private client is the housing association that currently borders the site.
The Lister Housing Association is a well- established and respected housing association with over 50 years of experience in providing affordable and sustainable housing solutions to the community. With a strong reputation for delivering highquality housing projects, the Lister Housing Association has been selected as the private housing association partner in the proposed public-private partnership (PPP) project.
As a leading housing provider in Scotland, the Lister Housing Association has a long history of working with local communities to develop and manage affordable housing schemes. They have a strong track record of delivering high-quality housing projects that meet the needs of their residents, and are committed to providing safe, secure, and sustainable homes.
The proposed project is located adjacent to Lister HA’s existing Keir Street development, which is a thriving community with a mix of affordable and market-rent housing units. The Keir Street development is a testament to Lister HA’s commitment to delivering high-quality housing projects that meet community needs.
As the private housing association partner in the PPP project, the Lister Housing Association will play a crucial role in the development of the social housing construction project. They will be responsible for managing the development of the housing units, ensuring that they meet the highest standards of quality, sustainability, and energy efficiency. The Lister Housing Association will also work closely with local residents, community groups, and other stakeholders to ensure that the project meets their needs and priorities.
The Lister Housing Association’s expertise in housing development and management will be invaluable in ensuring the success of the PPP project. They will bring a deep understanding of the local community’s needs and challenges, as well as a proven track record of delivering high-quality housing projects.
An Acupuncture Project.
The proposed council-led cooperative development project is a unique opportunity for a joint-funded public-private approach to affordable housing in Scotland. By leveraging the visitor levy, we can create a sustainable and thriving community that provides much-needed housing options while generating income and employment opportunities.
Each instance of the project should respond individually to its unique location, taking into account the local context, community needs, and environmental constraints. For example, a project located in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town may prioritise preserving traditional architectural styles and incorporating heritage features into the design. This could involve incorporating historic building materials, such as sandstone or slate, and incorporating traditional architectural elements, such as crow-stepped gables or ornate stonework.
In contrast, a project located in Edinburgh’s New Town may focus on creating modern, energy-efficient buildings that complement the existing
Georgian architecture. By adopting a collaborative approach between the council, private investors, and local stakeholders, we can ensure that each project is tailored to meet the specific needs of its location.
This approach involves conducting a comprehensive feasibility study for each location, engaging with local stakeholders and community groups to
THE ECONOMIC
MODEL IS REPLICABLE ACROSS THE ENTIRE CITY, BUT WHERE A NEW SITE IS IDENTIFIED, A UNIQUE ARCHITECTURAL
RESPONSE IS REQUIRED AT EACH LOCATION.
gather input and feedback on the proposed project, and developing a tailored design for each location.
By adopting this approach, we can create a series of unique and context-specific projects that respond to the needs of each location. This will not only ensure that the projects are successful but also provide a framework for
replicating the model across the city.
The benefits of this approach are numerous. It will increase community engagement by engaging with local stakeholders and community groups, improve sustainability by taking into account the local context and environmental constraints, increase economic benefits by creating a new revenue stream for the council through the sale of private residential units, AirBnB rentals, and lettable commercial spaces, and enhance social benefits by providing affordable housing options and community facilities.
Overall, this proposal offers a unique opportunity for a jointfunded public-private approach to affordable housing in Scotland. By adopting a collaborative approach and responding individually to each location’s unique context, we can create a series of successful projects that provide much-needed housing options while generating income and employment opportunities.
01
INITIAL SITE IS LOCATED AND DEVELOPED.
02
OPERATIONAL INCOME IS GENERATED.
SURPLUS PROFIT IS INVESTED INTO PURCHASING THE SUBSEQUENT SITE. 03
Financial Model.
This financial proposal employs a private CIC to access additional funding streams to make up for an evidenced shortfall in local council capability for funding social housing.
This financial proposal outlines a comprehensive plan for a council-led co-housing scheme, utilising the Visitor Levy as a key economic catalyst to fund the development of vacant properties and sites. The proposed scheme aims to create a sustainable and inclusive community, with a mix of private and social housing units, commercial spaces, and community facilities, in a new model of blended ownership and economic activity.
The development strategy involves the compulsory purchase of vacant properties and sites, followed by co-funding of the build through public-private partnering. The council will lead the development, specifying higher fees and higher renewable energy contributions to reduce energy running costs and alleviate fuel poverty.
Revenue streams include private rental sector units, council-owned rented units, AirBnB and lettable commercial spaces, and community facilities. Expenses include the compulsory purchase of vacant properties and sites, co-funding of the build, development and construction costs, and ongoing maintenance and management costs.
Proposed Model: Existing Model:
£40m
Avg. cost to a council per social rented home. AHSP Budget Cut Estimated annual TVL turnover
£146k -22%
“The Visitor Levy becomes the economic catalyst to fund a council led cooperative.”
The surplus generated by the scheme will be reinvested in future redevelopment projects and community projects that benefit the local area. This will create a sustainable cycle of investment and development, generating long-term benefits for the community.
In conclusion, this proposed co-housing scheme offers a unique opportunity to leverage the Visitor Levy as a catalyst for sustainable development. By combining public-private partnering with a focus on renewable energy and shared facilities, we can create a thriving community that benefits both residents and local businesses.
The proposed public-private partnership (PPP) social housing project aims to address the current shortage of affordable housing in Edinburgh, where the local council has declared a housing emergency. The project will be delivered through a Community Interest Company (CIC) Housing Association, which will have access to funding and grants from national bodies such as the National Lottery Community Fund and the Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme.
The objectives of the project are to deliver a co-housing development with 70% social rent units, as outlined in the Housing to 2040 strategy, and provide a mix of affordable housing units, including tourist accommodation, retail spaces, and private sector units for rent or shared equity. This will create a new model of blended ownership and economic activity, that is currently excluded from typical social housing developments. The project will utilise vacant and derelict land to reduce construction costs and increase the viability of the project.
The project will be funded through a combination of private investment and grants from national bodies. The CIC Housing Association will have access to funding from the National Lottery Community Fund and the Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme. The project will also generate income through the rental of private sector units, retail spaces, and tourist accommodation. The private investment component of the project will be secured through a combination of debt and equity financing. The CIC
Housing Association will work with private investors to secure funding for the project, with a minimum 60% private investment funding.
The project will be eligible for funding from other national bodies and philanthropic organisations. The Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme has a budget of £50m that can be accessed by CICs, and new-build development only pays 5% VAT on property or land that has been vacant for two years. Several contractors also offer reduced construction costs on vacant land.
The build-up of the proposal will be in line with Housing to 2040’s vision of 70% social rent, with 10% making up tourist accommodation that can levy the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Bill, 5% being retail (generating income for the business model and employment and upskilling for the homeless residents), and the remaining 15% being open market, private sector units for rent or shared equity. No units will be for outright sale to avoid any Right to Buy scenario, which was banned in Scotland in 2016.
Overall, the proposed public-private partnership social housing project is a unique opportunity to address the current shortage of affordable housing in Scotland. By leveraging access to funding from national bodies, working with private investors, and utilising vacant and derelict land, the project can deliver high-quality social housing units while also creating employment opportunities for homeless residents.
Place Based Investment Programme:
The Place-Based Investment Programme Fund aims to support local communities by providing resources for infrastructure development, economic growth, and social initiatives. By targeting specific geographical areas, the fund seeks to address unique needs and challenges faced by residents in those locations. Through strategic investments, the fund aims to foster community empowerment, improve quality of life, and create sustainable, resilient neighbourhoods. With a focus on local participation and collaboration, the fund works to drive positive change and promote inclusive, thriving communities.
Regeneration Capital Grant Fund:
The Scottish Regeneration Capital Grant Fund is a £50 million initiative that supports community-led regeneration projects across Scotland. The fund provides grants to organisations that are transforming deprived areas, promoting economic growth, and improving the quality of life for residents. The fund prioritises projects that bring together local partners, community groups, and public and private sector organisations to deliver innovative regeneration schemes. By investing in community assets, infrastructure, and skills development, the fund aims to create vibrant, sustainable communities that benefit local people and drive economic growth.
Vacant & Derelict Land Investment Programme:
The Scottish Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme (VDLIP) is a £65 million fund that aims to revitalise vacant and derelict land in Scotland. The fund provides grants to developers, community groups, and local authorities to purchase and regenerate vacant and derelict sites. The program targets areas with high levels of deprivation and unemployment, promoting economic growth and community development. Eligible projects include brownfield site redevelopment, infrastructure improvements, and environmental enhancements. By investing in these sites, the fund aims to create new jobs, stimulate local economies, and improve the quality of life for local residents.
Ending Homelessness Together Fund:
The Scottish Ending Homelessness Together Fund is a £50 million initiative that aims to tackle homelessness in Scotland. The fund provides grants to organisations and projects that support people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The fund focuses on early intervention, prevention, and rapid rehousing, as well as providing support services such as housing advice, counselling, and health services. The fund also targets specific groups, including young people, women, and those with complex needs. The aim is to provide a comprehensive approach to addressing homelessness, reducing the number of people who become homeless, and improving the quality of life for those who are already experiencing homelessness. The fund is a collaborative effort between the Scottish Government, local authorities, and third sector organisations. By investing in this fund, Scotland aims to make significant progress in ending homelessness by 2030.
Eligible Funds
National Lottery Community Fund:
The Scottish National Lottery Community Fund is a significant source of funding for community projects in Scotland. It supports initiatives that benefit local communities, promote social inclusion, and improve the quality of life for people across the country. This funding could be utilised for a social housing construction project by providing grants for the development of affordable and sustainable housing units. By investing in such projects, the Community Fund can help address housing shortages, reduce homelessness, and create vibrant, diverse communities. The funding can also support initiatives that promote energy efficiency and environmental sustainability in social housing constructions.
Private Loans:
The Scottish National Bank (SNB) has set a threefold vision to 2045, focusing on net zero, people, and place. The net zero goal aims to reduce carbon emissions, while the people aspect prioritises community development and social welfare. The place aspect emphasizes local economic growth and regeneration. Private loans, specifically designed for social housing construction projects, can align with the SNB’s vision. These loans can support the development of sustainable, energy-efficient housing, creating jobs and stimulating local economies. By financing social housing projects, the SNB can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future for Scotland.
The Visitor Levy (Scotland) Bill is expected to generate significant revenue for Scotland. The proposed 10% levy on overnight accommodation bookings in Scotland is expected to raise around £30-40 million annually. This funding will be used to support the tourism industry, improve visitor experiences, and enhance local communities. The Scottish Government estimates that the levy will generate around £300-400 million over the next 10 years. The revenue will be distributed through a new fund, which will be managed by a Scottish Government agency. The fund will support projects that benefit local communities and promote sustainable tourism practices.
Affordable Home Supply Programme:
The Scottish Affordable Housing Supply Programme (SAHSP) is a government-funded initiative aimed at increasing the supply of affordable homes in Scotland. The programme provides funding to local authorities and housing associations to develop new affordable housing projects, including social rent, mid-market rent, and low-cost ownership homes. The programme has been a key part of the Scottish Government’s efforts to address housing affordability and meet the country’s growing housing needs. However, in December 2023, the Scottish Government announced a significant budget cut to the SAHSP, reducing the funding by 26% compared to the previous year. This reduction has raised concerns about the impact on the ability to deliver new affordable homes and has sparked criticism from housing organisations and opposition parties. Despite this setback, the Scottish Government remains committed to delivering affordable housing and is working to identify alternative funding sources to mitigate the impact of the budget cut.
Visitor Levy (Scotland) Bill:
Timeline and process
MONTH 1 MONTH 2
SITE IDENTIFICATION
DESIGN PROCESS
CONSTRUCTION
TENANT IDENTIFICATION
PRIVATE OWNERSHIP
COUNCIL OWNERSHIP
SITE IDENTIFICATION
A list of vacant and / or derelict sites, in close proximity to primary tourist thoroughfares will be drawn up. A SWOT analysis of these sites will identify the test bed for the proposal, from which further sites will develop at later stages.
DESIGN PROCESS
This would be put out for tender as an open competition to local architects, working alongside the pre-existing contractual team of a chosen housing association and a local council representative. The project is replicable across the city, but each individual project should respond architecturally to its specific site.
CONSTRUCTION
Being part-funded by the local council would allow for higher fees to be specified, and for there to be greater scope for including low-energy heating systems - thereby reducing fuel poverty for end-users. Upskilling a local construction force where possible would be desirable.
TENANT IDENTIFICATION
Affordable housing units will be placed on the open market, and tourist accommodation advertised through a dedicated council website. Social housing will be added to the existing stock and advertised through its own portal. Homeless individuals in transitional housing will be selected by Cyrenians.
PRIVATE OWNERSHIP
Once tenants have moved in, and businesses are operational, ownership and operation will transfer completely to the private housing association, under a BOOT model. This will allow the private company to recoup costs incurred.
COUNCIL OWNERSHIP
Once the BOOT time-frame has completed, ownership, and maintenance, of the site will return to the local council. This will have allowed the private company to recoup there upfront costs and risks, while replenishing local council social housing stock.
CPOs
Compulsory Purchase Orders are a powerful tool used by local authorities in Scotland to acquire land or property for public benefit. In the context of addressing homelessness, CPOs can be used to bring vacant and derelict properties back into use, providing much-needed housing and community facilities. Glasgow City Council has been at the forefront of using CPOs to tackle homelessness, regularly employing this mechanism to acquire properties and bring them back into use.
In Glasgow, CPOs have been instrumental in addressing the city’s homelessness crisis. By acquiring vacant and derelict properties, the council can renovate and refurbish them, providing affordable housing options for those in need. This approach not only helps to reduce homelessness but also helps to regenerate communities, promoting social and economic growth.
However, not all Scottish councils have the same level of success in using CPOs. Edinburgh Council has
struggled to match Glasgow’s efforts. This is due to the fact Edinburgh’s housing market is notoriously expensive, making it challenging for the council to acquire properties at a reasonable price.
One key challenge faced by Edinburgh Council is the high cost of purchasing properties in the city’s prime locations. The cost of acquiring properties in areas like the city centre or popular neighbourhoods can be prohibitively expensive, making it difficult for the council to justify the expenditure. This is problematic when considering that CPOs are tied to the market value of the property, which can be significantly higher in areas with high demand.
To overcome this challenge, it is essential to specify vacant and derelict sites as a key component of the business model proposal. By identifying sites that are not being utilised effectively, local authorities can work with developers and stakeholders to acquire these properties at a lower cost. This approach
allows councils to prioritise their resources and focus on bringing underutilised properties back into use.
In addition to addressing homelessness, acquiring vacant and derelict sites can have a range of benefits for local communities. By revitalising these areas, local authorities can promote social cohesion, stimulate economic growth, and improve environmental quality. Furthermore, revitalising underutilised sites can help to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour, making neighbourhoods safer and more attractive for residents.
In conclusion, Compulsory Purchase Orders are a vital tool for local authorities in Scotland seeking to address homelessness and regenerate their communities. While Glasgow City Council has been successful in using CPOs to bring vacant and derelict properties back into use, Edinburgh Council has faced challenges due to the high cost of purchasing properties in the city’s prime locations.
Is a collaborative effort to address the issue of empty homes in Scotland. Established in 2011, the partnership works with local authorities, housing associations, and other stakeholders to identify and bring back into use empty and vacant homes. The SEHP provides grant funding to homeowners to repair and refurbish their properties, and offers guidance and support throughout the process. The partnership also works with local authorities to develop policies and procedures that support the use of empty homes, and has established partnerships with other organisations to leverage additional resources and expertise.
The SEHP’s work has resulted in a significant increase in the number of empty homes being brought back into use, with a 10% decrease in empty homes in Scotland since 2011. The partnership has also helped to reduce homelessness by providing affordable housing options. Overall, the SEHP is a vital initiative that is making a positive impact on the issue of empty homes in Scotland.
The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership...
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Coffee Saints
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organisation working closely with local authorities, charities, and businesses to develop innovative solutions to homelessness. The organisation’s founder, Josh Littlejohn, has also been instrumental in promoting the issue of homelessness through high-profile events and campaigns, including the annual Sleep in the Park event. Through its tireless efforts, Social Bite has become a beacon of hope for those affected by homelessness in Edinburgh, inspiring a city-wide movement to tackle this complex issue.
Cardboard Citizens
The Cardboard Citizens, a pioneering theatre company, brought their critically acclaimed work to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, shedding light on the often-overlooked issue of homelessness. Through their innovative verbatim theatre, they gave voice to the stories of people who have experienced homelessness, crafting powerful performances that humanized the issue and sparked meaningful conversations. Their work, “The Cardboard Box”, centered around the experiences of individuals who have been or are currently homeless, highlighting the struggles, stigmas, and triumphs of those living on the streets. By amplifying these voices, Cardboard Citizens challenged audiences to confront their own assumptions and biases, and to consider the complexities of homelessness.
Thank you for your time!
Rory Kavanagh