The private rented sector could play a greater role in the residential market, according to a report published by the Scottish Government this week.  The report identifies both opportunities as well as barriers to the development of the private rented sector in Scotland and suggests a need to attract long-term institutional investors into the sector.

Ken Ross, chairman of the Scottish Property Federation and a member of the Scottish Government's housing supply task force said:

'The report is a timely overview of the position of the private rented sector in the Scottish market and it also suggests a potential demand for more provision of private rented housing.  Clearly, if the sector is to play a greater role then policies must be adopted at both Holyrood and Westminster that will encourage and stimulate institutional investors in private housing for rent in Scotland.'

The British Property Federation has long campaigned for greater institutional investment in the private residential rental market and its views can be found at www.bpf.org.uk .