Barratt Developments plans to build around 2,500 new homes across the country.

A total of 14 new sites in areas including Renfrewshire, Edinburgh and Aberdeen will underpin 6,000 existing jobs and support more than 200 extra positions through local suppliers and subcontractors, the housebuilder said.

Between June 2015 and June 2016, 1,556 homes were built by Barratt, with plans for 2,480 over the next year.

Regional managing director Douglas McLeod said: "Demand for good-quality homes in desirable locations is still high across Scotland, and our ambitions for the year ahead are a reflection of our confidence in the housing market.

"We're seeing strong interest across the property spectrum, ranging from first-time buyers interested in our starter homes, to older homeowners looking to downsize. We'll continue to build homes which meet these varied demands.

"At the same time, our plans will allow us to continue employing and supporting local construction jobs across Scotland, providing a boost to both Scotland's economy and to local communities in areas where we are active."

Meanwhile, Hart Builders, part of construction firm Cruden Group, is planning to build 146 new homes in Edinburgh after securing £6.9 million of funding.

The project will create 30 new jobs and form part of the Scottish Government's National Housing Trust Initiative.

Kevin Reid, managing director of Cruden Group, said: "The financial support from Royal Bank of Scotland gives Hart Builders the opportunity to supply more high-quality housing stock to the Edinburgh property market.

"It also allows us to further expand our presence in the Edinburgh and Lothian area, cementing our commitment to the local community with the creation of new jobs and homes."

Jamie Drummond, relationship manager at Royal Bank of Scotland, said: "Hart Builders has an established reputation in delivering high-quality construction projects. Supporting the company will help it realise the potential for growth in the area.

"Hart Builders has a strong relationship with the Scottish Government, particularly within its National Housing Trust Initiative.

"By providing this funding package, we're helping Hart Builders play an important role to increase the supply of homes to meet demand in Scotland."