New energy performance data gathered from buildings in England and Wales has busted the myth perpetuated by critics of modern new homes that they are “rabbit hutches”, according to trade body Homes for Scotland.

Statistical analysis of the Energy Performance Certificates shows the mean floor area of new homes as being 94 square metres compared to 91 square metres for all domestic properties.

Homes for Scotland said the figure illustrate that, as well as new homes actually being larger than the total mean figure, they are also nearly 25% bigger than the commonly referred to figure of 76 square metres which itself dates back to 1996 – over 20 years ago.

Chief executive Nicola Barclay said: “These official figures only apply to properties south of the border as the same information is not publicly available in Scotland as of yet, but they will hopefully help recalibrate the conversation on new homes and help bust some of the myths that surround them.

“Of particular importance, the statistics also highlight the energy efficiency of new homes, demonstrating the significant savings of more than 50% that could be achieved in terms of both estimated energy usage and costs.

“With new homes built to proportions that suit modern lifestyle requirements and being much cheaper to run in comparison to their older counterparts, we must now focus on how we can all work together to deliver more homes across Scotland to meet the needs of our growing population.”