SNP Housing minister Alex Neil today heralded theScottish Government council house building scheme as a massive success after itemerged that that the number of council houses started across Scotland in 2010increased by over 100 per cent compared with 2009, official figures confirmedtoday.

In total 866 council homes were started, more than doublethe 379 started during the same period last year.

SNP Housing and Communities Minister Alex Neil said:

"As these figures show, Scotland's housing systemfaces major challenges.

"The UK Government's savage cuts right across thepublic sector present us with huge challenges to deliver much needed affordablehousing across Scotland.

"I am encouraged by the drive and determinationdemonstrated by local authorities that has led to such a massive rise incouncil houses across Scotland.

"Across all sectors, the level of housing starts hasfallen slightly in comparison with previous years. It illustrates the challengefor the future - just carrying on with what we are doing is not an option.

"Every penny of Government money will need to leverin resources to meet housing need. We have ensured that the housing andregeneration budgets have not been slashed in the way the UK Government haschosen for England.

"In 2011-12, the housing and regeneration budgetamounts to almost £400m which will contribute, amongst other things, to around6,000 new affordable homes helping support 7,500 jobs."