Scottish government officials have released millions of pounds in order to support affordable housing construction schemes in Edinburgh, reports STV.tv.

The £20 million cash boost means 600 new homes are set to be built in the region, which could create a plethora of social housing jobs within Edinburgh and the surrounding area.

The Housing Association will use the new cash to support the construction of 143 new homes in the North Edinburgh area; while Port of Leith Housing Association will receive a £5 million share - enough for 150 new homes. Remaining funds will be spread between other associations.

It is hoped the extra funding will help the Scottish Government reach its target of 6,000 new affordable homes by the year-end, cites Inside Housing.

Alex Neil, cabinet secretary for infrastructure and capital investment, commented on the news: "Edinburgh will see around five or six hundred new houses entirely in the city. In Leith, the Port of Leith Housing Association is getting £5 million grant and that will build 143 new houses in Leith alone.

"The benefit will be right across the city, where new developments will be going up. There are various different scales of scheme. Leith is one of the bigger ones obviously, but it's right across the city. Where there are opportunities, and we can fund them, we're taking the opportunity," he added.