Partnership creates jobs as well as homes

Building scheme

A partnership between a housing provider and West Lothian Council is showing postive results.

The programme between the council and provider of partnership housing, Lovell, is expected to deliver 738 homes – all for social rent – through 15 individual projects located across eight different site locations.

It has so far delivered 26 new apprenticeships sponsored by Lovell’s subcontractor partners as well as providing training for 30 existing apprentices. It has also supported 33 site jobs, eight graduate jobs and 35 work experience placements.

Ten first year apprentice joiners from West Lothian College recently visited Lovell’s Kirkhill site and were given a tour, an onsite induction process and an explanation of the different stages of the build process.

West Lothian Council’s executive councillor for services for the community, George Paul, said: “Our new build programme is not only delivering much needed affordable housing but also delivering a number of community benefits for local businesses and local people. Providing community benefits is a key aim of our new-build project. We are delighted that so many young people are being able to work on the programme, gaining fantastic life and work experience that will enhance their careers.”

Lovell’s local community benefit activities in West Lothian have recently been bolstered with the recruitment of a dedicated new team comprising Kelly Harkness as training adviser and Ness Stewart as community engagement manager.

Stephen Profili, regional managing director for Lovell in Scotland, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to be working with West Lothian Council to deliver such an extensive programme of newbuild social housing right across West Lothian.”