Building work starts on143newhomes
THE regeneration of the Gallowgate has taken a step forward as a £17million project to build 143 new GHA homes begins.
The new development will be made up of 115 homes for social rent and 28 for midmarket rent.
It’s the second phase of the Gallowgate new-build programme, after 62 homes were built by GHA in 2013.
The area has been earmarked as a priority for regeneration by Transforming Communities: Glasgow (TC:G) a strategic partnership between the Scottish Government, Glasgow City Council and GHA.
Councillor Kenny McLean, Glasgow City Council Convener for Neighbourhoods, Housing and Public Realm and Chair of TC:G, said: “These new homes in the Gallowgate mark another step forward in the regeneration of this historic Glasgow area and are espe- cially notable given the community’s involvement in planning the development.
“I’m sure all those who will live in these new homes will enjoy living there as much as their neighbours in the first phase of the development do now.”
The £17m development – which includes £9m in grant funding from the Scottish Government – is a mix of houses and flats, with 14 of the flats adapted for wheelchair users.
The new homes are beside the historic Whitevale Baths with GHA and the council working to find a future for the building to make it part of the community again.
The homes should be ready by early 2020.
Tenants and staff f rom GHA and Wheatley Group joined local elected members, representatives from the Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council as well as contractors CCG to mark the start of work.
Most of the new homes will be for GHA tenants in the area whose homes are earmarked for demolition as part of GHA’s work with its partners to regenerate the city.
Tenants have also been closely involved in shaping the plans for the new homes, through the Gallowgate Delivery Group.
GHA chairwoman Bernadette Hewitt said: “This is a really exciting time for the Gallowgate as we enter the second phase of our new-build programme.
“Tenants are already enjoying life – and saving money on their fuel bills – in the 62 homes we built in 2013.
“These new homes will help us create a community people are proud to live in.”
As part of the contract with GHA, CCG will be providing jobs and training opportunities for local people.
Alastair Wylie, chairman and CEO of CCG, said: “We are delighted to continue our ever-enduring partnership with GHA and Wheatley Group on what is a landmark project for the East End.
“Through our capabilities in off-site manufacturing and construction, these new homes will be delivered to the highest quality standard at faster speed of build while also offering enhanced levels of environmental performance.”