Kevin Murphy has joined as head of planning, while David Raine is taking on the wide-ranging role of policy manager.

With a career spanning more than twenty years, Kevin moves from his previous position as planning manager at Persimmon Homes where he led on planning applications, undertook pre-application discussions and consultations and made representations on matters of local and national planning policy. He was active in HFS work during this time through its local committee structure.

His experience at the coalface of planning for residential development will be welcomed by HFS members who are facing considerable challenges following the transition to the new National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4). A key priority for Kevin will be taking forward the recent independent research commissioned by HFS, which found that 693,000 households (28 per cent) in Scotland are in some form of housing need, with local authorities as part of their evidence gathering to inform their next Local Development Plans.

Kevin said: “The planning system is fundamental to Scotland’s social wellbeing and economic success, ensuring the country has the range and choice of homes that all those who live here require. Unfortunately, and as HFS originally warned, NPF4 is working against that with the number of major residential applications down, whilst housing starts and completions are also falling. It is essential for the people of Scotland that a way forward is found. I am looking forward to working with members and collaborating with our key stakeholders to achieve this as quickly as possible.”

David Raine brings critical policymaking insight gained from his more than 11 years’ experience advising senior Labour politicians including Scottish leader Anas Sarwar. With his previous role supporting housing spokesperson Mark Griffin, David is already well-acquainted with the numerous policy areas impacting the delivery of more homes to meet the needs of Scotland’s people.

David said: “Having worked closely with HFS over the last couple of years, the importance of home building over so many different measures, the organisation’s all-tenure approach and the passion of the team really struck a chord with me. I am relishing the opportunity to utilise my knowledge and skills to help deliver more homes that meet the needs and aspirations of our population.”

Kevin and David’s appointments follow the further recent HFS additions of David Petrie as external affairs manager and Megan Gibson as planning graduate.

HFS chief executive Jane Wood said: “I am delighted to welcome Kevin and David to the team who, together with David Petrie and Megan, bring a new vitality to our team. All have the essential skills we need as we seek to increase a better understanding of the home building sector and the many positive social and economic benefits new homes provide.”