en.Wedoany.com Reported - A new report published by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) recommends that Scotland establish an independent oversight panel, separate from the "More Homes Scotland" (MHS) agency, to support long-term housing supply. The report, titled *How Will We Know If the "More Homes Scotland" Plan Is Working?*, explores the importance of independent evaluation of the new agency's work.
The report draws on research into Canada's National Housing Council (NHC), an independent advisory body established under Canada's *National Housing Strategy Act*. It argues that the government must embed policy learning and evaluation mechanisms within MHS to ensure Scotland secures both the quality housing it needs and value for money for national taxpayers. The NHC is responsible for commissioning research, integrating the experiences of those who have experienced homelessness or housing difficulties, and advising the government on the effectiveness of housing policy implementation.
Dr. Jocelyn Fleming, Head of Policy for Scotland at the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), stated that "More Homes Scotland" has the potential to become a significant new institution in Scotland's housing system, helping to coordinate supply and increase housing provision. However, delivery and evaluation are two distinct functions. One of the lessons from Canada is that governments need to know not only what is being delivered, but also whether interventions are truly achieving their intended goals. If Scotland adopts a similar approach, it can identify emerging pressures, conduct long-term evaluations of projects, gather evidence from across the industry, and support better policymaking without adding unnecessary red tape.
The report supports the establishment of the "More Homes Scotland" agency, believing it can play a key role in coordinating and accelerating housing delivery. However, it notes that the housing system is highly complex and requires institutions capable not only of delivery but also of continuous learning and adaptation. According to the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), an independent advisory body could commission research on the effectiveness of housing projects; monitor affordability and housing outcomes over the long term; pool the experiences of those who have faced housing difficulties, industry expertise, and academic evidence; identify evidence gaps and emerging housing pressures; and support ongoing policy learning and adjustment.
The report emphasises that Scotland already has a strong housing research community. However, there is currently no single body to collect evidence from across the industry and feed it directly into ongoing housing governance and policy change. Jocelyn added that separating delivery from evaluation allows "More Homes Scotland" to focus on its core mission, while ensuring policymakers have access to independent evidence on what works, what challenges remain, and how policy should evolve. Scotland's housing system is unique, and Canada's experience demonstrates the value of embedding policy learning into housing governance from the outset, helping to ensure that more people in Scotland have a safe, warm place to live.
