Annual tour of Kingdom Group homes and services wows visitors.

The Kingdom Group recently hosted its annual project tour, showcasing a variety of new housing developments, established homes, and a range of supportive services available across Fife. Chair Linda Leslie and Chief Executive Tom Barclay warmly welcomed board members, customers, guests from the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations, funding partners, and other key stakeholders in Glenrothes before embarking on a day of exploration around Fife.

The tour kicked off at the former Glenwood Centre site in Glenrothes, where plans are underway to build 44 affordable mixed-tenure homes, a new community hub, and a community square. This project aims to breathe new life into the area following the demolition of previous buildings in 2023.

Next on the itinerary was a stop at a newly initiated site to the south of Hill View, Kinglassie, where 45 homes for social rent are currently under development within an established residential neighbourhood. The tour then proceeded to Pilgrims Way Avenue in Cardenden, a development completed in 2022. This project, which won Checkmate’s ‘Excellence in Construction Award’, offers 45 energy-efficient homes with a diverse housing mix comprising larger family homes, cottage flats, and accessible bungalows.

Heading to Kirkcaldy, the tour visited Kingdom Park, where 76 affordable homes for social and mid-market rent are situated, along with Viewforth Gardens, the former site of Viewforth High School. The tour also included a stop at Hunter House, a converted Category B listed building providing supported accommodation with five self-contained flats. This accommodation is delivered in partnership with Kingdom Support & Care to support Fife Council’s Rapid Rehousing Strategy and address homelessness in the area.

Linda Leslie expressed her pride in the Kingdom Group’s offerings, highlighting the affordable homes, community building efforts, and supportive services provided. She emphasized the importance of these wraparound services in helping customers and their families thrive, aligning with the group’s mission to offer more than just a home.

Reflecting on the tour, Linda shared, “Our annual project tour not only allows Board members to witness the breadth, quality, and impact of the homes and services we provide, but also facilitates meaningful connections with our staff and partners. It enables us to cultivate essential relationships and gain insights from our tenants first-hand, enhancing our understanding of their experiences and needs.”

Tom Barclay, Chief Executive of the Kingdom Group, echoed Linda’s sentiments, emphasizing that the group’s work goes beyond mere infrastructure. He highlighted the transformative impact of their initiatives, from community involvement and employment opportunities to empowering customers to lead fulfilling lives.

Tom remarked, “The project tour serves as a platform to engage in discussions about our communities, the employment prospects we create, and the ways we empower our customers to thrive. Most importantly, it fosters conversations about the future and collaborative efforts to deliver an exceptional customer experience.”