First residents occupy new Midlothian social housing

Embarking on this journey in spring 2023, the construction work at the Oakwood Edge development near the charming town of Dalkeith has come to fruition. The joy of this milestone is shared by Linda Millar, a dedicated mum of three, who is among the first families to set foot in their new abode.

Linda’s new abode, an energy-efficient three-bedroom home, boasts an open-plan kitchen/dining room and is equipped with solar panels that not only enhance sustainability but also aid in reducing energy bills. Additionally, each new tenant stepping into these eco-friendly dwellings will be gifted with an air fryer from Lovell on their move-in day, further advocating for energy conservation.

Situated in proximity to Mayfield, Dalkeith, and Newtongrange, with easy access to Edinburgh, Oakwood Edge stands as a beacon of community living. This mixed tenure development promises a total of 156 new homes in diverse styles, ranging from two, three, and four-bedroom homes to bungalows.

Overflowing with enthusiasm, Linda Millar expressed her satisfaction, “We love our new home. It’s flooded with natural light through the large windows, offers ample storage, and spacious living areas. Being able to remain in the familiar vicinity was immensely important for me and my children, facilitating proximity to our friends, family, and the community we hold dear. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to Lovell and Melville Housing Association for curating such an impeccable living space.”

Addressing this monumental occasion, Sarah Freel, the Head of Partnerships for Lovell in Scotland, exudes pride, “Oakwood Edge stands tall as a haven for families, and extending a warm welcome to new residents holds a special place in our hearts. As a collaborative housebuilder, we take pride in working alongside Melville Housing Association to bring forth these top-notch residences that not only alleviate the housing shortage in the region but also bolster the local economy by fostering job opportunities and training programs.”

Neil Edgar, the Melville Housing development manager, chimed in, “The demand for affordable, high-quality homes in Midlothian, as in the rest of Scotland, is palpable, making the unveiling of these new homes at Oakwood Edge a breath of fresh air for the local community. Rekindling our partnership with Lovell has been a rewarding experience, and it is imperative to underline that such progressive ventures stand on the pillars of funding from the Scottish Government and the unwavering support of our partners. To truly tackle the nationwide housing crisis, unified efforts must persist in the years to come.”