CRUDEN has started work on a £17.5 million contract with Midlothian Council to deliver a mix of 75 flats, cottage flats, and houses in Gorebridge.
The development will include 10 extra care units, two bariatric units and one four-bedroom, six-person wheelchair-accessible house.
The primary heat source will be air source heat pumps, intended to reduce carbon emissions. The homes will also feature ‘advanced’ insulation techniques.
Greenspace will encourage outdoor activities and the site will incorporate landscaped areas, communal gardens, and play areas.
Councillor Stuart McKenzie, Midlothian Council’s cabinet member for housing, said, “This is a landmark day as we start work, building sustainable, energy-efficient homes at Newbyres that will benefit local people for decades to come. We’re very pleased to be working with Cruden on this exciting development, which will also bring community benefits, such as job opportunities for local people during the construction phase.”
Fraser Lynes, MD of Cruden, added, “It’s been great to get our boots on the ground in Gorebridge today to herald the commencement of this innovative new development. Scotland is facing a well-documented housing emergency, and Newbyres will make an important contribution to alleviating the need for high quality affordable housing in Midlothian.
“We have been working closely with our partners at Midlothian Council to ensure the design of this development is tailored to meet the diverse needs of the Gorebridge community and the end result will be an impressive development with accessibility, sustainability and community at its core.”
