SIX new flats in a courtyard behind Buccleuch Street in Dalkeith are expected to welcome new tenants this autumn as part of Midlothian Council’s first Passivhaus properties.
The one and two-bedroom apartments are among 182 ‘green’ Midlothian Council homes of the future.
The Buccleuch Street project also includes three energy-efficient studios and a two-bedroom flat above shops in a historic building opposite the library and dating back to the 1700s. The retail units will be refurbished and the original shop fronts retained.
Councillor Stuart McKenzie, cabinet member for housing, said, “These ten flats in total are going to be great homes for folk right in the centre of historic Dalkeith, but more than that this is a super energy efficient project and a great chance for the council to learn about building houses for the future.”
Contractor Morris & Spottiswood is building the Buccleuch Street project. The firm’s housing director, Brian Pettigrew, added, “We are delighted to deliver Midlothian Council’s first ever Passivhaus project and contribute to their December 2019 Climate Change Motion, which detailed their goal of making the council’s activities net zero carbon by 2030. Not only does this support the council’s net carbon agenda, it aligns with our own carbon reduction approach and plan, a core strategic priority for the business.
“Key to Morris & Spottiswood’s net zero goal is supporting our clients through a sustainable offering, which assists in the delivery of sustainable, energy efficient homes. The Buccleuch Street project is expected to lead to energy savings of up to 90% compared to typical building stock. It is vital that partners in the construction industry, work together to collectively meet national and global climate targets – sustainability is a huge arena, touching on just about everything we do.”
Smith Scott Mullan Associates provided architectural services on the project.
