Work starts on 75 new social houses in Gorebridge
Midlothian Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor Stuart McKenzie donned his hard hat and high viz vest to break ground on the council’s latest green energy, affordable homes site.
Green energy
Cllr McKenzie joined Commercial Director Richard Crowther and Site Manager Willie Marshall, both of Cruden, which is delivering the £17.5 million project on behalf of the council at Newbyres, Gorebridge.
Extra care homes and wheelchair-accessible house
Cruden is building a mix of 75 flats, cottage flats, and houses in Gorebridge. This development will include 10 extra care units, 2 bariatric units and one 4-bedroom, 6-person wheelchair-accessible house.
Homes demolished in 2016
In 2016, 64 council homes had to be demolished on the site because of a carbon dioxide leak from the former coal mine below.
Turning point
Cllr McKenzie said: “This is a landmark day that marks a turning point in what was a difficult time for tenants and the council.
Years of work
“Our experts have spent years investigating and redesigning the site. Gas defence systems are installed and we’re now finally in a position to build sustainable, energy-efficient green homes at Newbyres that will benefit local people for decades to come.
Benefitting community
“We’re very pleased, therefore, 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.”
Innovative new development
Fraser Lynes, Managing Director of Cruden, said: “It's been great to get our boots on the ground in Gorebridge 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.
Partnership working
“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.”
Air Source Heat Pumps
Tenants will have access to high-quality, future-proofed homes, fit for the net-zero demands of the future. The primary heat source within the development will be Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs). ASHPs are energy-efficient systems that extract heat from the air outside to heat homes, significantly reducing carbon emissions compared to traditional heating systems. This initiative aligns with Scotland’s ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy.
High performance insulation
In addition to the innovative heating solutions, the homes will feature advanced insulation techniques. High-performance insulation will ensure that the homes are energy-efficient, maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures year-round while reducing energy consumption and utility costs for tenants.
Lots of greenspace
Plentiful outdoor greenspace is at the forefront of the development's design, promoting community well-being and encouraging outdoor activities. The development will incorporate landscaped areas, communal gardens, and play areas, providing residents with ample space to enjoy nature and outdoor recreation.
In the picture
From left to right at the Newbyres site are: Barry Stuart, the Senior Project Manager with Midlothian Council, Midlothian Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor Stuart McKenzie, Cruden Commercial Director Richard Crowther and Cruden Site Manager Willie Marshall.