The number of new homes built in Scotland is at its highest level for over three years.

Official statistics show that across all sectors, 4,583 homes were completed in April to June this year, the highest quarterly figure since 2010, and 29% higher than in the same quarter last year.

The Scottish Government says its latest completion figures also bring it closer to its target of delivering 20,000 homes for social rent by March 2016, with 80% of homes completed.

Margaret Burgess, housing minister, said: “I welcome the fact that the number of new homes built across all sectors is at its highest level for over three years, and I am particularly pleased that we are nearing our target of delivering 20,000 homes for social rent by March 2016.

“The Scottish Government’s investment in affordable housing, together with measures to support the industry and help people into home ownership, have undoubtedly helped to stimulate housing supply.

“Making sure everyone in Scotland has access to good quality housing is a vital part of the Scottish Government’s drive to secure economic growth, promote social justice, strengthen communities and tackle inequality.

“As part of this effort we have delivered over 4,500 new council houses since 2009 and have acted to preserve Scotland’s social housing stock by abolishing the Right to Buy from 1 August 2016, which will protect up to 15,500 social houses from sale and safeguard social housing for future generations.

“In addition, the supply of affordable housing continues to be a high priority for us, and we are now three quarters of the way towards our target of 30,000 affordable homes by March 2016. This commitment is underlined by our £1.7 billion investment in affordable housing over the current parliamentary term, which supports an estimated 8,000 jobs each year.”