THE build of 27 new affordable homes is underway at Linglie Road in Selkirk with McTaggart Construction leading the works on behalf of Scottish Borders Housing Association (SBHA).
The wider development team includes Smith Scott Mullan Architects and Harley Haddow, with it being delivered in partnership with the Scottish Government. To be known as Rutherford Way, in honour of Sir Walter Scott’s maternal grandfather, the development is set to address housing shortages in the Scottish Borders.
Janice Russell, MD at McTaggart Construction, said, “We’re delighted to be breaking ground at Rutherford Way and to be working with SBHA for the first time. This development will provide much-needed, quality affordable homes for people in Selkirk, and we’re committed to ensuring our presence here benefits the wider community and the local economy.”
As she prepares to retire at the end of May after 16 years as SBHA’s chief executive, Julia Mulloy cut the first sod as one of her final official engagements with the organisation. Julia said, “It is a real privilege to be here to mark the start of this development. Watching new homes begin to take shape is always special, because each one represents a fresh start for individuals and families.
“Projects like this also show the importance of strong partnership working, with organisations coming together to deliver homes and opportunities that will benefit the community for years to come. We would like to thank Scottish Borders Council, as well as the Scottish Government for funding support.”
A second joint project on the site of the former Heather Mill, also in Selkirk, sees the four partnersworking together on pre-construction design work. This project, which has recently been submitted for planning approval, would deliver a further 59 affordable homes for the region, signalling a commitment from the four organisations to increasing the supply of quality affordable housing in the Scottish Borders.
As part of its community benefit commitment, McTaggart Construction hosted a Meet the Buyer event ahead of works commencing, giving local businesses and suppliers the opportunity to get involved in the project. The partners are also working together to develop local talent pipelines, creating employment and training opportunities for people in the area.
