Developers to push forward with close to 400 new homes
● Housing projects at sites in Erskine and Bo’ness to create hundreds of jobs
Two Scottish housing projects are to push ahead as they aim to build almost 400 homes in regions suffering from a shortage of new properties.
Cala Homes (West) is set to create 151 properties, along with more than 200 jobs, as construction commences at its site in Erskine, while AWG and Mactaggart & Mickel have submitted development proposals for a 225-home estate in Bo’ness.
The projects target areas where demand for homes continues to outstrip supply, in an effort to help bridge the housing gap.
The Erskine site will support 130 direct and around 80 indirect jobs throughout its fouryear development, and is set to include a mix of affordable housing and properties for private sale.
It represents a £40 million investment by Cala, which has hailed the project as bringing a potentially “significant boost” to the local economy. An economic impact survey undertaken by consultancy Lichfields estimates the completed housing scheme will add £3.7m gross value per annum and a council tax contribution of £300,000 to the area.
Graham Mcneil, land director at Cala Homes (West), said: “Our latest development in Erskine will deliver quality housing while creating a strong community environment and demonstrates a long-term commitment to Renfrewshire.
“As well as delivering muchneeded private and affordable housing, Cala’s £40m investment will create new jobs and unlock additional investment opportunities, which will help drive economic growth in the future.”
The housebuilder is working alongside the Scottish Government to meet its 50,000 affordable homes target by 2021.
Earlier this week the group received planning approval to build 74 properties, including 26 affordable homes, at Lenzie in East Dunbartonshire.
Meanwhile, proposals submitted by AWG and Mactaggart & Mickel in Bo’ness lay out plans to build 225 houses, including 75 affordable homes which could be prioritised for locals.
Suggested plans also include “significant areas” of open space for communal use, potentially as allotments, community orchards or for sporting activities such as trim trails and children’s play areas.
Developers claim the site would address the current housing shortfall in the Falkirk Council area and intend to hold a series of community engagement events over the next few months prior to the submission of a formal planning application.
A spokesperson said: “There is a recognised shortfall in the number of homes being built locally over recent years, particularly when it comes to affordable housing.
“Prior to lodging a planning application for the site we aim to engage extensively with the local community, ensuring that we are delivering a development that is appropriate to the housing requirements of Bo’ness.”