CALA Homes (West), in partnership with Helensburgh Golf Club, has submitted a proposal of application notice (PoAN) to Argyll & Bute Council for the build of new homes in Helensburgh.
The plans set out the delivery of 145 homes across a near 20-acre site located off East Abercromby Street, with 25% of featured homes to be affordable – owned and managed by Dunbritton Housing Association.
At the heart of the proposals is a strategic partnership approach, bringing together expertise from Cala Homes (West), Helensburgh Golf Club, and Dunbritton Housing Association to deliver a development that responds to both housing demand and wider community priorities.
The trio said that the collaborative model will not only deliver new homes, but unlock significant reinvestment into Helensburgh Golf Club. This will support upgraded facilities, including a new clubhouse, and help strengthen the club’s positive legacy as a valued community asset.
Founded in 1893 and designed by renowned golf course architect James Braid, Helensburgh Golf Club has been a cornerstone of the community for more than 130 years. As a registered Community Amateur Sports Club (CASC), it plays a vital role in promoting accessibility and inclusivity, helping to make golf more affordable and available to individuals and families on limited incomes.
Cala’s plans would provide a range of homes to suit a variety of buyers, including a mix of three, four, and five-bedroom properties, alongside affordable homes that will support local housing need.
Sustainability is a key focus, with all homes and the new clubhouse designed to be energy efficient and gas-free, incorporating low-carbon technologies such as air source heat pumps and electric vehicle charging points. The development would also include green space, active travel connections and a community play park.
The local community is invited to learn more about the proposals, meet the project team and share feedback at two upcoming community consultation events. These will take place on May 14 (3-7pm) and June 18 (3-7pm) at Helensburgh Golf Club.
Gillian Hessett, land manager at Cala Homes (West), said, “This proposal reflects a carefully considered and collaborative approach, working in partnership to deliver high-quality homes and modernised amenities including a new clubhouse for Helensburgh Golf Club. By combining private and affordable housing with meaningful investment in cherished community assets, we believe this represents a positive and unique opportunity for Helensburgh, and we look forward to continuing to engage with partners and local stakeholders as the plans progress.”
A spokesperson for Helensburgh Golf Club commented, “We are incredibly proud of our heritage and the role the club has played in the Helensburgh community for generations, and we remain deeply committed to our members and the experience we offer today. However, we also recognise the importance of taking a long-term, strategic view to ensure the club continues to thrive in the future.
“This partnership represents a meaningful opportunity to secure the investment needed to modernise our facilities, strengthen our offering and create a more inclusive and accessible club for the wider community. If progressed, it would give us real confidence in our future, allowing us to build on our proud legacy while ensuring Helensburgh Golf Club remains a vibrant and sustainable community asset for years to come.”
Allan Murphy, CEO at Dunbritton Housing Association, added, “Providing high-quality social and affordable housing as part of a well-balanced, mixed-tenure development is essential to delivering sustainable communities. We are pleased to be progressing these proposals in partnership with Cala Homes (West). Our plans will help address local housing need in Helensburgh and ensure more people can access homes that are both affordable and high-quality.”
