The Scottish Government is planning extra funding for colleges, road maintenance and housing despite a Westminster cut of 26% to its capital budget.
New announcements include:
- An increase in funding for colleges of £61m over the spending review period
- An additional £38m for the housing budget bringing the total housing supply funding to £859m
- £2m to bring vacant town centre properties into residential use.
- An additional £10m for trunk road maintenance to deliver essential road and bridge repair works identified as part of Transport Scotland’s detailed inspection programmes.
Finance Secretary John Swinney said: “We are meeting our commitments to the people of Scotland and investing every penny we can in sustainable economic growth.
“This year we will invest £3.4bn in capital projects in the face of drastic budget cuts from the UK Government.
“This government is using every available opportunity to boost economic growth.
“Within the constraints of devolution our budget prioritises construction, skills, employment and a green economic stimulus.
“Through immediate infrastructure investment we are providing a boost to Scotland’s construction sector and wider economy and we are also maintaining the most supportive business environment in the UK.”
Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “Investing in affordable homes supports Scotland’s economy, promotes growth and maintains jobs in our construction industry.”