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Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2023–2028

Renfrewshire Council · 25 October 2022
Back to Communities and Housing Policy Board — 25 October 2022 and its agenda

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___________________________________________________________________
To: Communities and Housing Policy Board
On: 25th October 2022
___________________________________________________________________
Report by: Director of Communities and Housing Services
___________________________________________________________________
Heading: Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2023–2028
___________________________________________________________________
1. Summary 
1.1 Following a period of consultation, the Renfrewshire Strategic Housing
Investment Plan 2023 to 2028 has been finalised for submission to the
Scottish Government.  It sets out how investment in an ambitious affordable
housing programme will be targeted to deliver the objectives of the
Renfrewshire Local Housing Strategy. 
1.2 The Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2023 to 2028 can be found on the
Council’s webpages at Strategic Housing Investment Plan.
___________________________________________________________________ 
2. Recommendations
2.1 It is recommended that the Policy Board: 
(i)  Approves the Renfrewshire Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2023 to
2028 for submission to the Scottish Government.
_________________________________________________________
3. Background
3.1 Scottish Local authorities are required to prepare an annual Strategic Housing
Investment Plan and submit this to the Scottish Government. The Strategic
Housing Investment Plan sets out how government funding for affordable
housing will be targeted to achieve the objectives set out in Renfrewshire’s
Local Housing Strategy. 
3.2 Through the Affordable Housing Supply Programme, the Scottish Government
allocates grant funding (known as Resource Planning Assumptions) to local
authority areas.

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3.3 The Scottish Government has confirmed the level of funding allocated to
Renfrewshire to support the delivery of affordable homes for the period to
2026, as set out below: 
 £17.189M in 2022/23; 
 £17.140M in 2023/24; 
 £17.200M in 2024/25; and
 £17.485M in 2025/26.
3.4 Resource Planning Assumptions support the delivery of new affordable
homes across Renfrewshire by providing grant support at benchmark rates. 
Scottish Government benchmark grant rates are £71,500 for new Council
homes and £78,000 for new social rented homes delivered by housing
association partners. 
3.5 In addition to the grant benchmark rates, additional grant funding is also
available where affordable housing developers meet Scottish Government
criteria in relation to specific quality and design features, including: zero
emissions; the installation of automatic fire suppression systems; electric
vehicle charging points; space for home working; and digital connectivity.
4. The Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2023 – 2028  
4.1 The draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2023 to 2028 was approved for
consultation by the Communities and Housing Policy Board on 16 August
2022.   
4.2 A 4-week consultation period followed which involved all housing associations
operating in Renfrewshire, local stakeholder groups such as Community
Councils and tenants and residents’ associations, community planning
partners, other stakeholder groups and Renfrewshire’s residents. 
4.3 Five representations were received during the consultation period, including
responses from a Renfrewshire resident, two Scottish Government Key
Agencies, Renfrewshire’s Health and Social Care Partnership and Bishopton
Community Council, which have been taken into account in finalising the
Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2023 to 2028. Each individual / body
making the representation has received a response from the Council
commenting on matters which directly influence the Strategic Housing
Investment Plan along with matters related to areas out with the influence of
the Strategic Housing Investment Plan. 
4.4 The Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2023 to 2028 details how the Council
and partners will deliver the ambitious programme of new affordable homes
across Renfrewshire. It also contains funding provision for newbuild Council
housing in the Renfrewshire Housing Regeneration Programme.

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4.5 The plan also includes funding to purchase appropriate properties for social
rent on the open market where this would help to meet identified housing
needs or enable social landlords to undertake pro-active management and
maintenance of housing stock. 
4.6  The Council continues to work closely with the Scottish Government, Housing
Associations and other developing partners to manage and deliver the
development programme and facilitate delivery of the affordable housing
programme for Renfrewshire. 
______________________________________________________________ 
Implications of the Report
1. Financial – Provision has been made within the HRA Budget in relation to the
projects where the Council is the developing organisation. 
2. HR & Organisational Development – None.   
3 Community/Council Planning – Building strong, safe and resilient communities -
Increasing the supply  of affordable housing and regenerating communities. 
4 Legal – Conveyancing work associated with land transfers and disposals. 
5 Property/Assets – Transfer of General Services land to the Housing Revenue
Account for affordable housing and disposal of Council-owned land to housing
associations for affordable housing. 
6 Information Technology – None. 
7 Equality & Human Rights 
a.  The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in
relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts
on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights
have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the
report. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the
recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored,
and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 
8 Health & Safety – None. 
9 Procurement – None. 
10 Risk – Risks will be identified and managed for individual projects.  
11 Privacy Impact – None. 
12 COSLA Policy Position – None. 
13 Climate Risk – The Strategic Housing Investment Plan aims to deliver high quality,
energy efficient homes in sustainable locations across Renfrewshire.
_________________________________________________________
Appendix 1: Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2023-2028
_________________________________________________________
Author: Sharon Marklow, Place Strategy Manager. 
Tel: 0141 618 7835, email:  Sharon.marklow@renfrewshire.gov.uk

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Renfrewshire Strategic Housing
Investment Plan 2023 to 2028

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1 
RENFREWSHIRE STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN 2023 TO 2028
Renfrewshire’s Strategic Housing Investment Plan  
Renfrewshire’s Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2023 to 2028
sets out how investment in affordable housing will be targeted to
meet the Strategic Priorities of Renfrewshire’s new Local Housing
Strategy and support the delivery of the right homes in the right
places. 
The Scottish Government’s Affordable Housing Supply Programme
sets out a framework to deliver local housing projects and priorities
to assist in the provision of safe, energy efficient homes that meet
people’s needs and contribute to the creation of sustainable
thriving communities. 
The Scottish Government allocate grant funding to Councils
through the Affordable Housing Supply Programme to facilitate the
delivery of projects within the Strategic Housing Investment Plan. 
As part of the Affordable Housing Supply Programme process, local
authorities are required to prepare and update a Strategic Housing
Investment Plan each year. 
Preparation and Consultation - Renfrewshire Strategic
Housing Investment Plan 2023 to 2028 
A draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan covering the period 2023
to 2028 was prepared for consultation following initial discussions
with Registered Social Landlords operating in Renfrewshire and the
Scottish Government with a public consultation running between
the 22nd August 2022 to 23rd September 2022. 
A draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan was published on the
Council’s website and was also promoted on social media. A copy of
the draft Strategic Housing Investment Plan was also sent to local
Tenants and Residents Associations, Community Councils and other
key partners, stakeholders, community groups and third sector
organisations. 
The comments and feedback received as part of the consultation
process were then used to shape the finalised Strategic Housing
Investment Plan for the period 2023 to 2028. 
The finalised Strategic Housing Investment Plan can be viewed on
the Council’s website by visiting: 
https://www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/article/4232/Strategic-
Housing-Investment-Plan 
The Scottish Government’s Housing Programme 
The Scottish Government published their ‘Housing to 2040
Strategy’ in March 2021 which set out their approach to increasing
the supply of homes across all tenures.

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RENFREWSHIRE STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN 2023 TO 2028
In terms of affordable housing, the ‘Housing to 2040 Strategy’
included a target to provide 110,000 affordable homes over the 10-
year period to 2032 with at least 70% of these homes to be
developed for social rent. 
The ‘Housing to 2040 Strategy’ is ambitious and will require
ongoing partnership working between the Council, affordable
housing providers, private developers, the construction industry
and the Scottish Government. 
Continued financial support in terms of future funding
commitments from the Scottish Government will also be essential
to support the delivery of Renfrewshire’s contribution to national
affordable housing delivery targets. 
The Scottish Government’s Housing and Planning
Delivery Framework (HPDF) 
In addition to the ‘Housing to 2040 Strategy’, this Strategic Housing
Investment Plan takes cognisance of the Scottish Government’s
Housing and Planning Delivery Framework (HPDF) which promotes
more efficient collaboration between Housing and Planning
Services in relation to the Local Housing Strategy, Housing Need
and Demand Assessment and Scottish Planning Policy. 
Renfrewshire's Strategic Housing Investment Plan, the Local
Housing Strategy and the Local Development Plan all aim to
support the implementation of the Housing and Planning Delivery
Framework which aims to increase the supply of housing; make the
housing system more responsive to demand; improve long term
housing affordability and reduce volatility in the housing market. 
Resources for Housing Delivery
It is important to maintain a healthy, flexible and ambitious
affordable housing development programme to ensure that sites
can be progressed quickly to meet local needs while making best
use of available funding and resources. 
The Scottish Government provide local authorities with multi-year
Resource Planning Assumptions (RPA’s) to support long term
planning and delivery of projects within the Strategic Housing
Investment Plan. 
For the four year period 2022/23 to 2025/26, the following minimum
levels of grant funding have been confirmed by the Scottish
Government:
▪ £17.189M  in grant support for the financial year 2022/23; 
▪ £17.140M in grant support for the financial year 2023/24; 
▪ £17.200M in grant support for the financial year 2024/25; and
▪ £17.485M in grant support for the financial year 2025/26.

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RENFREWSHIRE STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN 2023 TO 2028
Revised Scottish Government Grant Benchmarks and
New Affordable Housing Design Features  
Resource Planning Assumptions support the delivery of new
affordable homes across Renfrewshire by providing grant support
at flexible benchmark rates for each affordable home developed. 
In late 2021, the Scottish Government increased benchmark grant
rates following discussions with COSLA, local authorities and
housing associations with new flexible benchmark rates now set at
£71,500 for new Council homes and £78,000 for new social rented
homes delivered by housing association partners. 
Over and above the increased flexible grant benchmark rates,
additional grant funding is available from existing Resource
Planning Assumptions to affordable housing developers who meet
Scottish Government criteria in relation to specific quality and
design features, including:
▪ The delivery of homes to Silver Level of the 2019 Building
Regulations in respect of Energy for Space Heating;
▪ The provision of balconies within flatted developments
where the provision of private or communal outdoor space is
not possible; 
▪ The provision of space for home working or study where it is
not possible to incorporate such space within the design of
the homes under current space standards; 
▪ By ensuring that all new social rented homes are digitally
enabled with tenants able to arrange for an internet
connection without the internet service provider having to
provide additional cabling to the premises;
▪ The installation of ducting infrastructure for electric vehicle
charge point connectors;  
▪ The installation of automatic fire suppression systems; and  
▪ Installation of heating systems which produce zero direct
emissions at the point of use.   
The increased flexible benchmark rates of grant and additional grant
being made available to affordable housing developers who
incorporate enhanced design elements is being met from current
known Resource Planning Assumptions. This may have an impact on
the number of new affordable homes being delivered as the level of
grant for each property increases.

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RENFREWSHIRE STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN 2023 TO 2028
Affordable Homes for Renfrewshire 
The Council are working with local authorities across the Glasgow
City Region to prepare a Housing Need and Demand Assessment
(HNDA 3). This assessment will identify the amount of new
affordable homes that need to be delivered across Renfrewshire. 
An additional comprehensive 10-year affordable housing
assessment of the Renfrewshire area has also been commissioned
to support the delivery of the Strategic Priories contained within
the new Local Housing Strategy. 
This detailed research will complement the wider HNDA 3 by
identifying housing need at a Renfrewshire sub-area level across
Renfrewshire’s towns and villages. This comprehensive evidence
base will also inform the application of the new Affordable Housing
Policy in Renfrewshire. 
The amount of new affordable homes that require to be delivered
will be set-out in the new Renfrewshire Local Housing Strategy. 
There continues to be need and demand for different types of
affordable housing across Renfrewshire, the projects included in
this Strategic Housing Investment Plan reflect these needs. 
The delivery of affordable housing will be further strengthened over
the next five years working with private sector partners to ensure
effective delivery of mixed tenure developments throughout
Renfrewshire as part of the new Affordable Housing Policy. 
Auchengreoch Road, Johnstone (Renfrewshire Council)   
New build social rented housing, St Ninian’s Crescent, Paisley (Link Group)

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RENFREWSHIRE STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN 2023 TO 2028
Renfrewshire new Local Housing Strategy   
A new draft Local Housing Strategy which covers the period 2022 to
2027 has now been developed with a 12 week public consultation
now complete. 
All feedback is being reviewed with a finalised Local Housing
Strategy to be submitted to a future meeting of the Communities
and Housing Policy Board. 
The new draft Local Housing Strategy takes account of current local
and national policy priorities as well as new research and evidence
and looks to build upon past successes whilst aiming to meet need
and demand for both housing and housing related services. 
The new draft Local Housing Strategy has been a collaborative
process with local communities, the third sector, key stakeholders
and partners all contributing to the development of the new draft
Local Housing Strategy. The new draft Local Housing Strategy
includes 5 strategic priorities as shown opposite.   
New draft Local Housing Strategy Strategic Priorities 
1. The supply and delivery of housing is increased
across all tenures to meet the housing needs of
different groups and create attractive and
sustainable places; 
2. People live in high quality, well managed homes in
sustainable neighbourhoods; 
3. Address the challenges of the climate emergency,
delivering homes that are warm, energy efficient
and fuel poverty is minimized; 
4. Preventing and addressing Homelessness with
vulnerable people getting the advice and support
they need; and 
5. People can live independently for as long as
possible in their own home and the different
housing needs of people across Renfrewshire are
being met.

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RENFREWSHIRE STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN 2023 TO 2028
Meeting Renfrewshire’s Housing Need 
New build affordable housing must reflect local demographics with
both private sector and affordable housing developers delivering
flexible homes across a range of property types and sizes with a
proportion of all new homes to be developed as accessible,
including some wheelchair standard housing. 
All affordable housing is built to Housing for Varying Needs
standard and should have flexibility built into its design to allow for
future adaptation and reconfiguration to meet tenant and
resident’s future needs. 
▪ In 2021, 179,940 people lived in Renfrewshire according to the
latest official population and household statistics from National
Records of Scotland. Renfrewshire’s population was spread
across 87,910 different households with an average household
size of just over two people. 
▪ By 2028, the number of households in Renfrewshire is expected
to increase to around 90,600 through a combination of small
projected increases in the population combined with an
increasing number of people living alone which places upwards
pressure on the overall number of households. 
▪ Renfrewshire’s population like Scotland’s is ageing with people
living longer. In 2021, almost one fifth (19.6%) of Renfrewshire’s
population was 65 years of age or older. 
Renfrewshire Affordable Housing Investment Priorities 
All projects included within this Strategic Housing Investment Plan
have clear links to the Strategic Priorities of the new draft Local
Housing Strategy. 
Together with our partners, Renfrewshire Council acknowledge the
important contribution good quality affordable housing makes to
people’s lives with good quality housing having a positive impact on
health, general wellbeing, educational attainment and the
reduction of child poverty. 
Good quality affordable homes also contributes to enhancing
Renfrewshire’s towns and villages by encouraging a sense of place
and community with place making principles employed when
taking projects forward to foster housings role in creating
successful and sustainable places.   
This Strategic Housing Investment Plan supports the provision of a
range and choice of affordable housing of the right type and size to
meets the needs of different groups throughout Renfrewshire.

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RENFREWSHIRE STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN 2023 TO 2028
This will be achieved through new build affordable housing
development and through the purchase of appropriate homes on
the open market where this is the most appropriate option in line
with the priorities of the Local Housing Strategy. 
This Strategic Housing Investment Plan includes a range of projects
that will meet the needs of individuals, families and those who
require accommodation to meet a particular housing need such as
housing for older people and housing to meet the needs of those
with physical disabilities. 
This Strategic Housing Investment Plan identifies projects for both
general and particular needs with particular needs provision
included as standalone purpose-built accommodation as well as
within mainstream general needs developments. 
This provision alongside appropriate support will assist people to
live independently and successfully for as long as possible in their
own homes and communities. 
Affordable homes delivered through the Strategic Housing
Investment Plan process require to be of a high quality, be energy
efficient and be able to meets people’s needs and aspirations both
now and in the future with homes able to adapt to meet people’s
changing needs over time. 
In recent years, affordable homes have been delivered through the
Strategic Housing Investment Plan process across a range of
affordable tenures, this approach will continue to support the
delivery of a range of affordable housing options. 
The Strategic Housing Investment Plan also supports the delivery of
affordable homes on larger private sector sites by making
appropriate use of Renfrewshire’s Affordable Housing Policy to
support delivery of affordable housing in areas of pressure and to
promote the creation of mixed tenure communities. 
As well as new build affordable housing, this Strategic Housing
Investment Plan places a strong emphasis on making best use of
existing stock where possible and taking any necessary action to
address issues in terms of housing quality and sustainability. 
This includes progressing Council plans for targeted regeneration
activity with new build Council development and/or significant
investment and improvements to existing homes.

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RENFREWSHIRE STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN 2023 TO 2028
The Strategic Housing Investment Plan will support the
delivery of the new Local Housing Strategy by: 
1. Supporting local housing regeneration programmes; 
2. Including new affordable housing provision to replace
social rented housing no longer fit for purpose; 
3. Addressing mismatch between the current supply of
social rented housing and the housing people need
and want to live in, taking account of type, size,
quality and location; 
4. Increasing the supply of affordable housing in areas
where there is demand but limited provision; 
5. Supporting the development of sustainable mixed
communities by including affordable provision on
private sector development sites; 
6. Expanding the supply of housing for older people and
those with particular and complex needs, including
those who are homeless or on a repeat and persistent
cycle of homelessness; and 
7. Continuing to support town centre regeneration
through residential development. 
Addressing the Climate Crisis in Renfrewshire 
Tackling the Climate Crisis is a major priority for Renfrewshire
Council with work currently being progressed to develop
Renfrewshire’s Plan for Net Zero with actions to achieve Net Zero
to be embedded in related Council plans and strategies. 
It is recognised that the changing climate has a direct impact on
Renfrewshire’s current housing stock and that some residents will
be more vulnerable to this than others.   
The Council’s £1 million Climate Change Action Fund, which funds
innovative projects and initiatives, supports engagement and
partnership working across Renfrewshire and accelerates the pace
of change of existing projects in order to tackle the climate crisis. 
Climate Change Adaptations
Projects included within this Strategic Housing Investment Plan aim
to tackle fuel poverty by maximising opportunities for innovative
energy efficient development with greener measures included
within new build developments. 
Both Renfrewshire Council and our housing association partners are
looking to incorporate additional energy efficiency measures as
part of new build design and will actively target reduced carbon
emissions from new build development.

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RENFREWSHIRE STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN 2023 TO 2028
Renfrewshire Council New Build Programme
This Strategic Housing Investment Plan rolls forward the Council’s
own ambitious new build programme and follows the completion
of new build Council homes at both Dargavel Village, Bishopton and
at Johnstone Castle in Johnstone in recent years. 
Other new build Council housing projects are currently progressing
well with completion of new Council homes anticipated at
Auchengreoch Road in Johnstone in Autumn 2022 and at Ferguslie
Park, Paisley in late Summer 2023. 
The Council's Regeneration and Renewal Programme will also
deliver new Council homes as part of a £100 million pound
investment package over the next 10 years. 
Ferguslie Park, Paisley (Renfrewshire Council)  
Renfrewshire Council Regeneration and Renewal
Programme 
Renfrewshire Council have approved an investment of at least £100
million over the next 10 years to deliver modern, high quality,
energy efficient, affordable Council homes. 
The Council’s £100 million investment programme is intended to
significantly improve the Council’s existing housing stock through
enhanced investment in homes, including works to the external
fabric of properties as well as environmental improvements. 
This significant investment will also support the delivery of new
build Council homes were enhancement and improvement of
existing stock has been determined not to be viable following
consultation with local communities.   
Phase 1 of the Council’s regeneration programme identified 8 initial
areas to participate in a first phase of regeneration activity with
each of these areas identified based on having a combination of
one or more of the following factors - low demand, high void rates,
high turnover, estate management issues, high current repair costs
and high future investment requirements with these areas often
also forming part of the most deprived areas of Renfrewshire
according to the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation 2020.

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RENFREWSHIRE STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN 2023 TO 2028
For each of the eight areas, a range of regeneration and renewal
proposals were developed and consulted upon. In some areas,
these proposals included selective demolition with plans now being
developed for newbuild housing on any resulting cleared site or
where redevelopment is not possible, on alternative sites nearby. 
Grant support from the Strategic Housing Investment Plan will be
required to support the delivery of new Council homes in 4
regeneration areas where existing stock is being demolished as part
of phase 1 of the regeneration programme. These areas are: 
▪ Howwood Road Area, Johnstone; 
▪ Thrushcraigs Area, Paisley; 
▪ Broomlands Area, Paisley; and 
▪ Springbank Area, Paisley. 
Other areas identified for improvements to existing stock include: 
▪ Auchentorlie Quadrant/Seedhill Road, Paisley; 
▪ Howard Street, Paisley; 
▪ Moorpark, Renfrew and; 
▪ Waverly Road, Paisley 
It is the Council’s ambition that this housing led regeneration
becomes a catalyst for wider regeneration and a means to address
inequalities including heath inequalities, recognising that good
quality housing can be a contributor to positive health outcomes. 
Delivering New Affordable Homes in Renfrewshire
As shown in Appendix 3, plans are in place to deliver significant
levels of new affordable homes throughout Renfrewshire.   
Regeneration activity remains a key focus with this Strategic
Housing Investment Plan reflecting the strategic importance of
regeneration activity across Renfrewshire. 
The importance of strategic regeneration is reflected in the projects
currently on site or proposed to be taken forward over the next five
years as shown in Appendices 1 and 3. 
Detailed information with regards to ongoing and proposed
affordable new build developments can be found in Appendix 1. 
Millarston, Paisley (Link Group)

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RENFREWSHIRE STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN 2023 TO 2028
Particular Housing Needs 
The new draft Local Housing Strategy highlights the need for
housing that meets the particular housing needs of a range of client
groups with a particular focus on homelessness prevention
(Strategic Priority 4) and enabling people to live independently for
as long as possible in their own home with their different housing
needs being met (Strategic Priority 5). 
This Strategic Housing Investment Plan carries forward a number of
projects to address identified particular needs with projects having
been refined since the last Strategic Housing Investment Plan. 
▪ 16+ Amenity standard homes at Abbey Quarter Phase 4,
Paisley which will sit alongside general needs housing;
▪ Amenity standard housing at Station Road, Paisley with around
45 amenity standard homes being developed for social rent;  
▪ Older Persons housing reprovisioning, Erskine with around 24
new older persons homes being developed to replace existing
provision. 
Regular discussions take place with Renfrewshire Health and Social
Care Partnership (HSCP) when planning new developments with it
recognised that there is a continuous need to investigate the
requirements for particular needs developments at an early stage
to ensure that projects are viable, sustainable and capable of
meetings tenants and residents’ needs. 
Wheelchair Accessible Housing 
Renfrewshire Council and its Housing Association partners aim to
deliver a range of property types and sizes to meet people’s
different housing needs, this includes the development of homes
that meet wheelchair accessible standards. 
Moving forward, all new build developments proposals will be
required to design homes that are able to meet occupants
changing needs over time and the needs of an ageing population
by providing accessible and adaptable homes. 
In line with Scottish Government guidance, targets for the
inclusion of wheelchair accessible homes as part of all tenure new
build developments have been identified as part of the
development of the new draft Local Housing Strategy 2022-2027. 
The new draft Local Housing Strategy proposes that:
▪ New residential proposals must provide a minimum 10% of all
dwellings designed to be easily adaptable for residents who
are wheelchair users; and 
▪ 5% of all new homes must be designed to wheelchair
accessible standard.

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RENFREWSHIRE STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN 2023 TO 2028
Rapid Rehousing Transition Plans
Renfrewshire Council and partners worked together to prepare a
Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan (RRTP) covering the 5 year period
to 2024. 
The Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan details how those who are
homeless will be provided with settled accommodation more
quickly; spend reduced time in temporary accommodation and
have more access to up-scaled support. 
The strategic housing priorities contained within this Strategic
Housing Investment Plan are aligned with and consistent with the
Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan with this Strategic Housing
Investment Plan supporting delivery of homes to meet the
requirements of different needs groups, household types and sizes.   
Gypsy/Travellers
The Renfrewshire Local Development Plan includes a policy which
supports the identification of new privately-owned transit or
permanent sites. 
Should a requirement for accommodation/sites be identified to
meet the needs of Gypsy/Travellers, future updates of the Strategic
Housing Investment Plan will include details. 
Child Poverty (Scotland) Act 2017
This Strategic Housing Investment Plan recognises the fundamental
role housing has in tackling child poverty. 
This Plan aims to support the delivery of a range of property types
and sizes that meet the needs of families of all sizes through the
creation of high quality energy efficient homes in sustainable
communities that support health, wellbeing and attainment. 
Ukrainian Resettlement / Asylum Dispersal Programme
Renfrewshire Council are working with the UK and Scottish
Governments and COSLA to determine what Renfrewshire can
provide in terms of matching refugee arrivals from the Ukraine as
well as those arriving within the context of the Asylum Dispersal
Programme to properties in Renfrewshire that are available from
either the Council’s or housing association partners supply. 
At present, the number of homes required to support
Renfrewshire’s contribution towards these national resettlement
schemes is unclear. However, this additional housing need may in
part be met through strategic acquisitions of private housing with
grant provided in line with the proposed support levels for other
strategic acquisitions on the open market.

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RENFREWSHIRE STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN 2023 TO 2028
Acquisition of Private Housing (Rental Off the Shelf) 
As part of this Strategic Housing Investment Plan, provision is made
for a proportion of available resources to be used to assist social
housing providers - both the Council and housing association
partners - to purchase appropriate properties for social rent on the
open market where this would help to meet identified housing
needs or enable social landlords to undertake pro-active
management and maintenance of housing stock. 
This provision will support the acquisition of a range of property
types including empty homes and other types of property where
the acquisition of these properties align with the Strategic Priorities
of the new Local Housing Strategy and the Council’s Acquisitions
Strategy. 
Available resources will continue to be prioritised to support the
delivery of new build affordable housing with open market
acquisitions supported where there is slippage in the programme in
any given year and funding may therefore be available. 
Where funding is available, grant support may be made available to
the Council and housing association partners to support these
strategic acquisitions of up to £40,000 per property to support
strategic acquisitions. 
Consideration will only be given to properties in line with the
Council’s Acquisitions Strategy with properties required to:
▪ meet an identified need in terms of stock type, size and
location;
▪ meet particular needs which may be difficult to address
within the existing stock base;
▪ represent good value for money, taking account of repair and
investment requirements as well as purchase price; 
▪ located close to the stock base of the acquiring landlord, for
management and maintenance purposes; and 
▪ assist in allowing common works to be progressed on mixed
tenure blocks. 
To be eligible for grant support, affordable housing providers will
be expected to investigate all other available funding options
alongside grant support from the Council’s Resource Planning
Assumption/Affordable Housing Supply Programme.

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RENFREWSHIRE STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN 2023 TO 2028
Council Tax on Empty and Second Homes 
At present, there is no direct funding allocated to the affordable
housing programme in Renfrewshire from revenue raised from
empty homes. However, the Council actively use other mechanisms
available to promote the delivery of affordable housing. 
Over the last 3 years, the Council’s Empty Homes Officer has
successfully helped to bring 63 long term empty homes back into
the effective housing supply (2018/19: 14 homes, 2019/20: 26
homes and 2020/21: 23 homes). 
Programme Management and Project Prioritisation -
Core and Shadow Programme 
This Strategic Housing Investment Plan splits projects in to two
groups through the use of a ‘core’ and ‘shadow’ programme.
Projects within each group are shown in Appendix 3. 
Projects within the ‘core’ group will be progressed in the earlier
years of the programme (normally years 1-3) where there is grant
availability and where developers finances allow. 
Projects included in the ‘shadow’ programme will be progressed as
‘core’ projects complete or funding becomes available or where
there is the ability to ‘front fund’ projects to allow projects to 
proceed earlier. This may mean that project timescales are subject
to change. 
In terms of front funding, the Council or the housing association
partner may initially fund the early stages of project development
costs from their own resources, with grant being paid to developing
organisations at the first available opportunity as funding becomes
available. 
The inclusion of a ‘core’ and ‘shadow’ programme allows for more
effective management of available resources whilst allowing an
element of flexibility that assists in addressing slippage on projects
due to draw down grant support in any given year. 
Projects in the shadow programme may require extended lead in
times to allow for site investigative works, site assembly or to
arrange the necessary private finance to enable a development to
proceed – all of these aspects influence how projects are prioritised
within the programme. 
Additional new projects may be added to the programme should
appropriate opportunities arise over the next 12 months prior to
the next update of the Strategic Housing Investment Plan. Any
additional projects brought forward will need to align with Local
Housing Strategy Strategic Priorities.

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15 
RENFREWSHIRE STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN 2023 TO 2028
Delivery
The Council will continue to explore options for joint working
around innovative delivery mechanisms that support the delivery of
affordable housing throughout Renfrewshire. 
Both the Council and our housing association delivery partners will
continue to look for efficiencies in construction methods and will
work with the construction industry and design teams to determine
the suitability of non-traditional construction methods for projects
included with the Strategic Housing Investment Plan. 
Housing Infrastructure Fund 
In recent years, a number of Renfrewshire projects have
successfully accessed the Housing Infrastructure Fund with housing
association partners continuing to look at options to bid for support
from the Housing Infrastructure Fund as and when required. 
At present, no project developer within this Strategic Housing
Investment Plan is looking to access Housing Infrastructure Fund
support, however this may change as developments move on site. 
Monitoring Progress
A range of project management activities are used to ensure
resources are managed effectively with projects progressing as
planned. These project management activities include: 
▪ Ongoing liaison between services within the Council and
between the Council and Registered Social Landlord partners
on specific projects;
▪ Multi-agency project group meetings; 
▪ Quarterly tripartite meetings involving the Council, individual
developing Registered Social Landlord partners and the
Scottish Government; and
▪ Six weekly internal officer group meetings to review progress. 
Throughout the duration of this Strategic Housing Investment Plan,
progress will continue to be monitored to support project delivery. 
Glenburn, Paisley (Sanctuary Scotland/Paisley Housing Association)

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16 
RENFREWSHIRE STRATEGIC HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN 2023 TO 2028 
Strategic Housing Investment Plan Appendices and
Priorities 
Appendix 1 details progress with projects currently on site as well
as future proposed projects over the lifetime of the Strategic
Housing Investment Plan.   
Appendix 2 shows recent affordable housing completions. 
Appendix 3 lists projects that are currently progressing and/or
expected to draw down grant funding and/or be completed during
the lifetime of this Strategic Housing Investment Plan. 
Appendix 4 gives details of sub-areas and settlements within
Renfrewshire. 
Equalities
This Strategic Housing Investment Plan includes housing provision
for a range of different needs groups with provision included for
older people and those with physical disabilities with a range of
development sites supporting the provision of both clustered
accommodation which is being developed to meet an identified
need as well as mixed developments that support inclusive and
independent living with blended general and particular needs
accommodation. 
This Strategic Housing Investment Plan has been prepared in
consultation with the Health and Social Care Partnership to ensure
that projects take account of opportunities to deliver housing that
meets the needs of a range of households with an identified
specific need. 
In line with The Equality Act 2010 and the associated protected
characteristics, an Equality and Human Rights Impact Assessment
has been prepared alongside the preparation of the Strategic
Housing Investment Plan 2023 to 2028. 
The aim of this assessment was to identify the likely or actual
effects of this Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2023 to 2028 on
people. 
This includes identifying where there will be a positive impact and
further opportunities to further promote equality. Where there are
any potential negative impacts identified, we have identified
actions required to eliminate or mitigate these negative impacts.

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Appendix 1: Renfrewshire Affordable Housing Project Updates 
1A: Projects completed in 2022/23 or currently on site and expected to complete in full during 2022/23 
Development Units Status Comment
Glenburn, Paisley 131 Completed
Summer 2022
This development of 109 new homes for social rent and 22 new home for shared equity low
cost home ownership add to the mix of affordable homes in this area. Completed Summer
2022.
Millarston, Paisley 99 Completed July
2022
This development of 99 new homes for social rent adds to the mix of affordable homes in this
area. Completed in July 2022. 
Auchengreoch Road,
Johnstone 39
On site, due to
complete in
October 2022
This development of 39 new Council homes adds to the affordable housing supply in South-
West Johnstone. Completion expected October 2022.
Bishopton Phase II,
North Renfrewshire 58
On site, due to
complete in
October 2022
This second phase of development within Bishopton Community Growth Area (CGA) (Dargavel
Village) will provide 58 social rented homes by Loretto Housing Association. Completion
expected October 2022.
Albert Road, Renfrew 42
On site, due to
complete in
February 2023
This social rented development of 42 homes by Williamsburgh Housing Association will add to
the affordable housing supply in Renfrew. Completion expected early 2023.

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1B: Projects currently on site or due to start on site in 2022/23 (includes phased completions in 2022/23 and beyond) 
Development Units Status Comment
Ferguslie Park,
Paisley 101
On site, due
to complete
August 2023
This development of 101 new homes being developed by the Council will assist in the
regeneration of the Ferguslie Park area. Completion is expected in phases between January and
August 2023. 
Abbey Quarter Phase
IV, Paisley Town
Centre 
81
On site, Due
to complete
August 2023
Link Group are on site delivering 81 new affordable homes. This fourth phase of development will
complete the redevelopment of the former Arnott’s site which is a key strategic location in
Paisley Town Centre. This development will complete in phases during 2022/23 and 2023/24.
Napier Street,
Linwood  51
On site, Due
to complete
August 2023
This social rented development of around 51 homes by Sanctuary Scotland Housing Association
will add to the affordable housing supply in Linwood.
Woodend House,
Houston, West
Renfrewshire
14
Due to start
on site
November
2022
Link Group are providing 14 new homes for social rent within a larger private sector development
in Houston, West Renfrewshire. These affordable homes will add to the supply of affordable
homes in West Renfrewshire. The overall development will complete in phases during 2022/23
and 2023/24. 
Orchard Street,
Paisley   50
Due to start
on site in
early 2023
Plans are progressing for a Comprehensive Tenement Improvement (CTI) project at Orchard
Street/Causeyside Street, Paisley following 5 blocks of flats being designated as a Housing
Renewal Area (HRA) in March 2017. The overall development is expected to complete in 2023/24.
Johnstone Castle
Phase II 68
Due to start
on site in
March 2023
Link Group are progressing plans for a second phase of affordable housing in Johnstone Castle.
This development will provide around 68 new homes for social rent as well as infrastructure and
green spaces. This development will complete in phases during 2023/24 and 2024/25.
Bishopton Phase III,
North Renfrewshire 62
Due to start
on site in
March 2023
This third phase of development at Bishopton Community Growth Area (CGA) (Dargavel Village)
by Loretto Housing Association will provide 62 new homes for social rent across 2 sites. The first
44 homes are expected to complete in October 2024 with a further 18 new homes expected to
complete in early 2026.

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1C: Projects expected to start on site in 2023/24 or later or when a projected site start date has still to be confirmed 
Development Units Status Comment
Cartha Crescent,
Paisley 33
Due to start
on site in April
2023
This social rented development of around 33 homes by Williamsburgh Housing Association will
add to the affordable housing supply in central Paisley. 
Gibson Crescent,
Johnstone 28
Due to start
on site in
October 2023
This social rented development of around 28 homes by Williamsburgh Housing Association will
add to the affordable housing supply in Johnstone. 
Station Road, Paisley 45
Due to start
on site in
October 2023
This development by Linstone Housing Association will provide amenity housing for older
people (around 45 new homes).  
Gallowhill, Paisley 60
Due to start
on site in
October 2023
This social rented development of around 60 homes by Renfrewshire Council will add to the
affordable housing supply in the Gallowhill area. Site Investigations at this location are currently
ongoing. 
Carbrook Street,
Paisley 20
Due to start
on site in
January 2024
Renfrewshire Council regeneration area. Following public consultation, plans are being
progressed to deliver around 20 new Council homes in the Carbrook Street Area of Paisley.
Howwood Road,
Johnstone (Site 1 of 2) 80
Due to start
on site in
October 2024
Renfrewshire Council regeneration area. Following public consultation, plans are being
progressed to deliver around 80 new Council homes in this first phase of development in the
Howwood Road Area of Johnstone.
Stirling Drive, Linwood  64
Due to start
on site in
January 2025
This social rented development of around 64 homes by Linstone Housing Association will add to
the affordable housing supply in Linwood.

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Springbank, Paisley
(Phase I) 65
Due to start
on site in April
2026
Renfrewshire Council regeneration area. Following public consultation, plans are being
progressed to deliver around 65 new Council homes in this first phase of development in the
Springbank Road Area of Paisley.
Thrushcraigs, Paisley 50
Due to start
on site in July
2026
Renfrewshire Council regeneration area. Following public consultation, plans are being
progressed to deliver around 50 new Council homes in the Thrushcraigs Area of Paisley.
Broomlands (West
Campbell Street),
Paisley
25
Due to start
on site in April
2027
Renfrewshire Council regeneration area. Following public consultation, plans are being
progressed to deliver around 25 new Council homes in the Broomlands Area of Paisley.
Howwood Road,
Johnstone (Site 2 of 2) 80
Due to start
on site in April
2027
Renfrewshire Council regeneration area. Following public consultation, plans are being
progressed to deliver around 80 new Council homes in this second phase of development in the
Howwood Road Area of Johnstone.
Springbank, Paisley
(Phase II) 35
Due to start
on site in
September
2029
Renfrewshire Council regeneration area. Following public consultation, plans are being
progressed to deliver around 35 new Council homes in this second phase of development in the
Springbank Road Area of Paisley.
Paisley West End,
Sutherland Street 22 Site start date
tbc
Sanctuary Scotland are progressing plans for the redevelopment of this site as part of the
regeneration of Paisley’s West End with 22 new homes developed for social rent.  
Paisley West End,
Underwood Lane  13 Site start date
tbc
Sanctuary Scotland are progressing plans for the redevelopment of the former University of the
West of Scotland student accommodation site as part of the Paisley West End Regeneration
Masterplan. It is anticipated that 13 new affordable homes will be developed.
Paisley West End,
Phase II 111 Site start date
tbc
Sanctuary will progress the later phases of the Regeneration Masterplan to deliver around 111
new homes at Well Street and Clavering Street East as part of the Paisley West End
Regeneration Masterplan.
Ryefield, Johnstone 36 Site start date
tbc
This social rented development of approximately 36 homes by Linstone Housing Association will
add to the affordable housing supply of houses in the Johnstone area.

Page 25

East Lane, Paisley
Town Centre  48 Site start date
tbc
This social rented development of around 48 homes by Loretto Housing Association will add to
the affordable housing supply in central Paisley.
Older Persons Housing
Reprovisioning, Erskine  24 Site start date
tbc
Bridgewater Housing Association are progressing plans for a new purpose built older persons
housing development that will replace existing scattered older persons housing provision across
Erskine. 
Foxbar Rivers, Paisley 40 Site start date
tbc
This social rented development of around 40 homes by Paisley Housing Association will add to
the affordable housing supply in the Foxbar area of Paisley and bring vacant sites back in to use.
Foxbar Rivers, Paisley 40 Site start date
tbc
This social rented development of around 40 homes by Renfrewshire Council will add to the
affordable housing supply in the Foxbar area of Paisley and bring vacant sites back in to use.
Paisley Town Centre 48 Site start date
tbc
Efforts will continue to identify a potential site for affordable housing in Paisley Town Centre to
promote mixed tenure communities and the growth of the resident town centre population.  
Westburn
Avenue/Blackstoun
Road, Ferguslie Park,
Paisley
22 Site start date
tbc
This social rented development of around 22 homes by a developer still to be identified will add
to the affordable housing supply in the Ferguslie Park area of Paisley and bring a vacant site
back in to use.
Garthland Lane,
Paisley 40 Site start date
tbc
This social rented development of around 40 homes by Renfrewshire Council will add to the
affordable housing supply in Paisley.
Bishopton Phase IV &
Future Phases 136 Site start date
tbc
Additional sites will be identified and progressed for affordable housing within Bishopton
Community Growth Area (CGA) (Dargavel Village). 
West Renfrewshire
Villages  59 Site start date
tbc
Efforts will continue to identify potential sites for affordable housing in West Renfrewshire to
meet affordable housing need in this area.  
Private Sector Acquisitions that meet identified
Housing Need 
An allowance will be made within the programme for private sector ‘off the shelf’ acquisitions
where such purchases meet a specified criteria and contribute to meeting local housing need.
Local Development Plan Affordable Housing
Policy Future Requirements
An allowance will be made within the programme for new affordable homes within new
development sites as part of the new Affordable Housing Policy in Renfrewshire.

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2017/2018
Sanctuary Andrew Avenue Phase I Renfrew 77 77
2018/2019
Sanctuary Inchinnian Road (Western Park) Renfrew 67
Sanctuary Andrew Avenue Phase II Renfrew 60 127
2019/2020
Sanctuary Paisley West End (Phase I (Co-op) Paisley & Linwood 39
Sanctuary Love Street Paisley & Linwood 132
Link New Sneddon Street Paisley & Linwood 24 195
2020/21
Link Smithhills Street Paisley & Linwood 26
Renfrewshire Council Bishopton Phase I North Renfrewshire 80
Williamsburgh HA Milliken Road, Kilbarchan West Renfrewshire 18 124
2021/22
Renfrewshire Council Johnstone Castle Johnstone & Elderslie 95
Link Group Amochrie Road, Foxbar Paisley & Linwood 36
Link Group Thrushcraigs Phase II (St Ninians) Paisley & Linwood 23
Paisley HA Westerfield House Paisley & Linwood 16 170
693
Sanctuary/Paisley HA Glenburn Paisley & Linwood 131
Link Group Millarston Paisley & Linwood 99
Renfrewshire Council Auchengreoch Road Johnstone & Elderslie 39
Loretto Bishopton Phase II North Renfrewshire 58
Williamsburgh HA Albert Road Renfrew 42
Renfrewshire Council Ferguslie Park (Phase 1 of 2) Paisley & Linwood 32
401
Completions between 2017 and 2022 & estimated completions 2022/23 Appendix 2
2022/2023 - Estimated Completions

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Appendix 3 - Core & Shadow Programme
Projects in the Affordable Housing Supply Programme
Auchengreoch Road, Johnstone 39 £2.302 £2.302 £0.000 £0.000
Bishopton Phase II, North Renfrewshire 58 £1.057 £1.057 £0.000 £0.000
Ferguslie Park, Paisley 101 £6.112 £6.112 £0.000 £0.000
Albert Road, Renfrew 42 £3.317 £3.317 £0.000 £0.000
Napier Street, Linwood 51 £4.280 £4.280 £0.000 £0.000
Woodend House, Houston, West Renfrewshire 14 £1.318 £1.318 £0.000 £0.000
Abbey Quarter Phase IV, Paisley 81 £7.893 £7.893 £0.000 £0.000
Orchard St/Causeyside Street (HRA), Paisley 50 £5.241 £3.259 £1.982 £0.000
Johnstone Castle Phase II, Johnstone 68 £11.802 £1.350 £10.452 £0.000
Bishopton Phase III, North Renfrewshire 62 £4.836 £0.500 £4.336 £0.000
Gibson Crescent/North Road, Johnstone 28 £2.381 £0.000 £2.381 £0.000
Cartha Crescent, Paisley 33 £2.806 £0.000 £2.806 £0.000
Station Road, Paisley 45 £4.590 £0.508 £4.082 £0.000
Gallowhill, Paisley 60 £4.290 £0.044 £4.246 £0.000
Sutherland Street/UWS site, West End, Paisley 35 £4.155 £1.838 £2.317 £0.000
Ryefield, Johnstone 36 £3.664 £0.150 £1.171 £2.343
East Lane, Paisley 48 £3.744 £0.000 £3.744 £0.000
Older Person's Housing Reprovisioning, Erskine 24 £1.872 £0.150 £1.722 £0.000
West End Balance, Paisley 111 £7.994 £1.645 £3.600 £2.749
Private Sector Acquisitions that meet identified Housing Need 70 £2.400 £0.600 £1.100 £0.700
LDP Affordable Housing Policy Future Reqs tbc tbc £0.000 tbc tbc
1056 £86.054 £36.323 £43.939 £5.792
Shadow Programme 
Projects in the Affordable Housing Supply Programme
Stirling Drive, Linwood 64 £6.936 £0.982 £5.954 £0.000
Foxbar Rivers, Paisley (Renfrewshire Council) 40 £2.860 £0.000 £2.860 £0.000
Foxbar Rivers, Paisley (Paisley HA) 40 £3.120 £0.000 £3.120 £0.000
Carbrook Street, Paisley 20 £1.430 £0.268 £1.162 £0.000
Howwood Road, Johnstone (Site 1 of 2) 80 £5.720 £0.328 £3.000 £2.392
Springbank, Paisley (Phase 1 of 2) 65 £4.648 £0.500 £1.150 £2.998
Thrushcraigs, Paisley 50 £3.575 £0.000 £0.575 £3.000
Broomlands (West Campbell Street), Paisley 25 £1.788 £0.000 £0.350 £1.438
Howwood Road, Johnstone (Site 2 of 2) 80 £5.720 £0.300 £0.600 £4.820
Springbank, Paisley (Phase 2 of 2) 35 £2.503 £0.000 £0.350 £2.153
Paisley Town Centre 48 £3.744 £0.000 £1.872 £1.872
Westburn Avenue/Blackstoun Road, Ferguslie Park, Paisley 22 £1.716 £0.220 £1.414 £0.000
Garthland Lane, Paisley 40 £2.860 £0.328 £0.000 £2.532
Bishopton Phase IV & Future Phases 136 £10.608 £0.000 £3.536 £7.072
West Renfrewshire Villages 59 £4.602 £0.000 £2.886 £1.716
804 £61.830 £2.926 £28.829 £29.993
Sub-Areas
1.  Paisley & Linwood All Units Core + Shadow Core + Shadow Core + Shadow Core + Shadow
2. Renfrew 1860 £147.884 £39.249 £72.768 £35.785
3. Johnstone & Elderslie
4. North Renfrewshire
5. West Renfrewshire
Number of
Affordable
Units
Total Grant
Requirement (£M)
Estimated Total
Spend by End
March 2023
Estimated Grant
Requirement (Yrs 4-5)
2026/27-2027/28
Estimated Grant
Requirement (Yrs 1-3)
2023/24-2025/26
£ Million
Core Programme
Number of
Affordable
Units
Total Grant
Requirement (£M)
Estimated Total
Spend by End
March 2023
Estimated Grant
Requirement (Yrs 1-3)
2023/24-2025/26
Estimated Grant
Requirement (Yrs 4-5)
2026/27-2027/28

Page 28

Appendix 4 Renfrewshire sub-areas