SCOTTISH Borders Housing Association (SBHA) has teamed up with Cruden Homes to deliver the largest new-built project the association has carried out to date, bringing 70 new affordable homes to the former site of Howdenburn Primary School in Jedburgh.
The decision to develop in Jedburgh was prompted by SBHA’s identification of significant housing demand, with over 350 applicants expressing a preference for living in the area, while analysis conducted by SBHA revealed a need for diverse housing options.
The Howdenburn project aims to deliver house types that meet a broad range of needs and household sizes.
Julia Mulloy, chief executive at Scottish Borders Housing Association (SBHA), said, “We are delighted to be working on this project with Cruden Homes and Aitken Turnbull, who both have a strong track record of delivering affordable homes in the Scottish Borders and beyond. We know the life-changing impact that a home can have, and this development affirms our determination to further extend our role in the provision of quality affordable housing in the Scottish Borders.
“In addition, the project will also seek to maximise local training and employment opportunities, underscoring SBHA’s commitment to fostering economic growth and resilience within the region.”
The 5.57-acre development will feature a mix of two, three, and four-bedroom homes. It will also deliver infrastructure including roads, footpaths, and a sustainable urban drainage system.
Fraser Lynes, MD of Cruden Homes, added, “This exciting landmark development is a great example of Cruden’s strategic commitment to delivering land-led affordable housing projects for partner organisations, and we are delighted to continue delivering quality new homes in the Scottish Borders region.
“At Cruden, we are also focused on creating a legacy that goes beyond the provision of the new homes and as such we will be exploring training, employment, and other community benefits we can bring to the area.”
Designed by architects Aitken and Turnbull, the development is centred around ‘ample’ access to green space. Ben Glennon, associate and project architect at Aitken Turnbull, said, “The essence of our design centres on a new community green space, which will serve as a focal point for the development and Howdenburn Drive. New informal pedestrian routes will be established to ensure connectivity with the neighbourhood , and we will be working with the council to provide ecological and amenity enhancement for the development that will benefit the whole of Howdenburn area.”
