North Lanarkshire Council has reached a major milestone in its Open Market Purchase Scheme, securing its 1,000th property and continuing to create more affordable housing opportunities across local communities. The landmark purchase, completed recently in North Motherwell, marks another significant step in the council’s long-term commitment to increasing housing supply, preventing homelessness and bringing more homes back into use.
Scheme's Role in Housing Supply
Since the scheme was introduced, it has become an important part of the council’s new supply programme, helping people access good-quality council housing while supporting the improvement of local neighbourhoods. The initiative has also enabled long-term empty homes to be transformed and has provided greater housing security for tenants whose private landlords have chosen to sell.
Expansion and Community Impact
The council has continued to expand the scheme over recent years, allowing more residents to remain in their homes as council tenants and helping unlock improvements in existing housing stock across North Lanarkshire. Councillor Michael McPake, the council’s Convener of Housing, said: “Reaching our 1,000th home is a fantastic achievement and reflects the sustained effort and commitment of everyone involved in delivering the programme. This scheme continues to make a real difference for our communities. It allows us to increase the supply of affordable homes in areas where they are needed most, supports local regeneration and, importantly, helps people remain in their homes and avoid housing uncertainty.”
Positive Feedback from Tenants
Fiona Dickson, Project Development Officer, added: “One of the most pleasing aspects has been hearing from tenants and residents about the difference it is making. We’ve received very positive feedback from people across our towns who have seen empty homes brought back into use, improvements made to properties and more families able to settle into secure homes within established communities.”
The council continues to work towards further purchases, aiming to meet high demand for affordable housing in the region.
