THREE housing associations have celebrated the delivery of new homes in Dundee to support independent living and help address Scotland’s housing crisis.
In an event at the Charleston homes in Dundee, MP for Dundee Chris Law and MSP for Dundee City West, Joe Fitzpatrick, joined Blackwood Homes & Care, Bield Housing & Care, and Hillcrest Homes to mark the official handover of the first phase of the homes.
The £17.5 million Charleston development, led by Blackwood, features 66 ‘highly adapted, technologically advanced’ homes that will help ease the waiting list for accessible accommodation.
Bield has acquired 24 of the homes, Hillcrest 25, while Blackwood retains the remainder.
The development features a mix of two-bedroom flats and larger family homes, based on the award-winning Blackwood House design, all equipped with features that facilitate independent living. Innovations include lift access, remotely controlled home automation systems, and digital care technologies.
Chris Law MP said, “My own experience living in a Blackwood home gave me firsthand insight into how crucial these adaptive living spaces are. They don’t just provide shelter, they offer independence, dignity, and a sense of home to those who need it most. This project in Dundee is not just about buildings – it’s about transforming lives and communities.”
Simon Fitzpatrick, chief executive of Blackwood, added, “By working collaboratively with Bield and Hillcrest, we’ve demonstrated that homes that help people live independently can be delivered at scale.”
Drew Moore, director of assets at Bield, commented, “These new homes will significantly enhance our offering in Dundee, providing modern, accessible living spaces that support independence and well-being. Our mission is to help people live independently for as long as possible, and we are proud to be working with like-minded organisations to make this a reality.”
Angela Linton, chief executive of Hillcrest, stated, “We’re proud to be part of this collaborative effort and coming together to celebrate this project. These new homes represent more than just buildings, they’re a testament to what can be achieved when organisations come together with a shared vision. This development will make a real difference in addressing housing need in Dundee.”
Fife-based Campion Homes was appointed as lead contractor in 2022 to deliver the properties.
