Opening the launch, Provost Cllr Kenneth Duffy said: “Housebuilding plays a significant role not just in Scotland’s national economy but also here in our local economy.

“As provost in North Lanarkshire, I fully understand the numerous social and economic benefits that are often delivered through new build housing developments which goes beyond bricks and mortar.

“It was good to meet with David Scott, managing director of Barratt Homes West Scotland and hear first-hand their continued investment and future opportunities in North Lanarkshire but to also hear about the challenges facing the Scottish housing sector.”

David Scott, managing director, Barratt Homes West, said: “It was great to meet with the provost of North Lanarkshire Council to talk about our renewed and continued investment in North Lanarkshire and our future ambitions.

“The Scottish housebuilding sector is facing significant challenges as we go forward to deliver the housing that Scotland needs. To deliver the housing that Scotland needs we need to adopt a partnership working model with local authorities like North Lanarkshire Council as we overcome the hurdles associated with housing delivery.”