Groups unite to make affordable homes a reality

How the development in Braemar could look

A Deeside group is teaming up with a charity to bring more affordable housing to its village.

Braemar Community Ltd (BCL) and Rural Housing Scotland will work together to bring the development to land at Kindrochit Court.

Rural Housing Scotland will help the group – which develops and operates major projects – in negotiations to buy the land, identify funding and develop designs.

Plans for 11 affordable houses and flats were previously approved for the site in 2014, but a study last year identified the potential to build up to 15 houses and flats.

Architect Sam Foster, who is working with Rural Housing Scotland to deliver the scheme, said: “We are very pleased to be able to continue working with residents and businesses in Braemar to take the findings from the feasibility study to the next stage.

“The site at Kindrochit Court has enormous potential for high-quality, low-carbon, affordable homes built from non-toxic materials that prevent fuel poverty, address the climate crisis and provide secure accommodation to those living and working in the area.

“Over the next few weeks we will be working closely with BCL to secure funding to undertake the plethora of environmental surveys and ground investigations needed for the site.”

Upper Deeside councillor Geva Blackett, who lives in Braemar, said: “Sam will be visiting Braemar on a monthly basis and there are plans to set up a drop-in ‘surgery’ for residents and businesses to find out more about the project.”