Following the Scottish Government’s announcement that improving the energy efficiency of existing buildings in Scotland will be designated a national infrastructure priority, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has applauded Scotland’s 'trail blazing' approach to this important policy area.

Gordon Nelson, Services Director of FMB Scotland, said: “The Scottish Government has quite rightly prioritised our existing buildings because it recognises that in doing so it will meet a number of its economic, social and environmental objectives.

"The next hurdle will be to encourage the UK government to increase its ambition for energy efficiency.

"The UK has a legally binding target to reduce the country’s carbon emissions by 80% by 2050. This will simply not be achieved unless we dramatically reduce the carbon emissions emitted by our existing building, which are responsible for 27% of the UK’s total carbon emissions.

“Moving away from the obvious carbon reduction benefits of this policy, investing in our current homes is essential at a time when we face a national housing crisis. It makes sense to maximise the benefit of the homes we already have while also ensuring that we build as many new homes as possible.

“Not only will this policy boost jobs and growth in Scotland, it will help home owners reduce their energy bills and help lift families and individuals out of fuel poverty. We look forward to working with Dr. McLeod to ensure that this progressive policy is implemented on the ground.”