A new energy efficient, affordable housing development in Helensburgh has been officially opened and welcomed its new residents.
The project was constructed by leading construction firm, The JR Group, in partnership with Dunbritton Housing Association, with 12 apartments, which are accessed via East King Street, are available for social rent.
Work began last summer following funding from the Scottish Government’s Affordable Housing Supply Programme (AHSP) and Argyll and Bute Council’s Strategic Housing Fund, as well as private funding from Dunbritton Housing Association.
Argyll and Bute Council was the first local authority in Scotland to declare a Housing Emergency in June 2023 – with neighbouring West Dunbartonshire and the Scottish Government then following suit.
Dunbritton’s Chairperson, Sephton MacQuire, visited the flats upon completion to officially cut the ribbon and welcome its residents.
He said: “It was with great pleasure that I was asked to officially open our new Jeanie Deans development of twelve flats, both single and double occupancy.
“This was much needed in Helensburgh, where there are so many applicants on the Home Argyll housing register.
“This was achieved through excellent partnership working with our development consultants, MacDonald Cameron; the continued financial support of the CAF Bank and the Scottish Government; and The JR Group who constructed the development on time and within budget.”
The JR Group worked alongside MAST Architects, G3 Consulting Engineers, NBM Construction Cost Consultants and Macdonald & Cameron Ltd to bring the project to life.
Sandra Lindsay, Development Director, for The JR Group, said: “This was the first project we have delivered for Dunbritton Housing Association and we hope it marks the start of a great partnership and the first of many developments.
“We are proud to have delivered quality homes for the area at a time when towns across the country including Helensburgh, are in great need of more affordable housing.
“I had the opportunity to attend the opening, and it was fantastic to meet with representatives from Dunbritton Housing Association as well as local dignitaries and see the apartments ready for their residents to enjoy and turn into homes.”
Dunbritton Housing Association, based in Dumbarton, offers rented homes across West Dunbartonshire and Argyll and Bute.