Got net-zero news, project updates, or product launches to share? 12 Affordable Homes Coming to Penicuik with Ark Housing and Connect Modular
Connect Modular and Ark Housing Association have collaborated to propose the development of 12 affordable cottage flats on the site of a former care home in Penicuik. After the demolition of the care home and a competitive tender process, Connect Modular has been appointed as the main contractor for the redevelopment of the brownfield infill site by Ark Housing Association.
Connect Modular specialises in volumetric modular construction and will construct the homes at their manufacturing facility in Cumnock, Ayrshire. The houses will be transported to the site with 90% of the construction work already completed, reducing disruption to the local community. This method not only offers environmental benefits but also ensures that the new homes meet high quality standards.
The development will consist of two one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom cottage flats for social rent. These homes are specifically designed to blend in with the local context and include an area of open space. Each home will also feature air source heat pumps and PV panels for energy efficiency.
Jennifer Higgins, CEO at Connect Modular, expressed her excitement about the project, stating, “We are thrilled to have been chosen by Ark Housing Association for this development. Our volumetric modular construction process allows us to tackle the challenges of redeveloping brownfield sites, and we are proud to bring much-needed housing opportunities to the Penicuik community.”
Ark’s director of development and customer experience, Caryn Innes, added, “We have worked closely with Connect Modular to finalise the development plans for this site, and we look forward to starting construction in late summer. The off-site construction process will minimise disruption in the area, thanks to our partnership.”
The Scottish Government has provided over £1.5 million in support for this project through a combination of direct grants and donations from its Charitable Bonds programme. The new energy-efficient homes will address the affordable housing needs in Penicuik once completed.
With planning permission secured, construction work is set to begin this summer, with the new homes expected to be handed over to residents during the winter months.
