Housebuilder warns of looming job losses

Scotia Homes has warned a reorganisation of the business may lead to redundancies.

The Ellon-based housebuilder would not say how many jobs could go in a “fast-moving” economic climate.

But managing director Martin Bruce insisted it would be “considerably” less than the 100plus roles that a source claimed were on the line.

According to the source, who asked not to be named, a redundancy consultation has started among a workforce of about 190 people.

Mr Bruce – who founded the business in 1990 together with his late father, Bill Bruce – pledged to keep any job cuts to a minimum and highlighted new developments with the potential to keep as many people as possible in work.

It comes less than two months after Scotia said it had been acquired by Camlin Group, a joint venture owned by two Scottish property entrepreneurs – Dundee-based Bruce Linton and Aviemore’s David Cameron.

Mr Bruce said: “As a result of the combined effect of both coronavirus and the widespread redundancies affecting the oil and gas sector in north-east Scotland, Scotia Homes has announced a reorganisation in order to adjust the business.

“This may lead to some redundancies, however as a direct result of the recent acquisition of Scotia by leading Scottish property stalwarts David Cameron and Bruce Linton, the strategy to geographically diversify is being fast-tracked.”

Six new sites are being acquired at locations in the Highlands and on Tayside and work on these will start during the next couple of years, Mr Bruce said.

He added: “This is already bringing benefits to the business which includes there being a significant reduction in the number of potential redundancies.

“Scotia has a strong balance sheet but, nevertheless, with such continuing widespread economic uncertainty, this is a challenging time for all.

“We will be working with our shareholders, management team and employees to minimise the number of any redundancies.”