Cruden begins £17.5m social housing project with Midlothian Council.

Cruden has embarked on a groundbreaking £17.5 million project with Midlothian Council to construct a mix of 75 flats, cottage flats, and houses in Gorebridge. This development will encompass 10 extra care units, two bariatric units, and a four-bedroom, six-person wheelchair-accessible house.

The paramount focus of this project is sustainability, ensuring that residents will inhabit high-quality, future-proof homes that align with the net-zero requirements of the future. The heating system will predominantly utilise Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs), which are energy-efficient systems extracting heat from the outdoor air to warm homes, thus significantly reducing carbon emissions compared to conventional heating methods. This initiative is in harmony with Scotland’s ambitious objectives to slash greenhouse gas emissions and advocate for renewable energy.

Moreover, the residences will incorporate cutting-edge insulation methods. By utilising high-performance insulation, these homes will be energy-efficient, maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures year-round while trimming energy usage and utility expenses for residents.

The development places copious emphasis on outdoor green spaces, endorsing community well-being and encouraging outdoor activities. Featuring landscaped areas, communal gardens, and play spaces, residents will have abundant room to relish nature and engage in outdoor recreation.

Councillor Stuart McKenzie, Midlothian Council’s housing cabinet member, expressed his enthusiasm by stating, “This marks a significant milestone as we commence building sustainable, energy-efficient homes at Newbyres, which will benefit the local populace for years to come. We are delighted to collaborate with Cruden on this exciting project, which will also offer community advantages such as job prospects for locals during the construction phase.”

Fraser Lynes, Cruden’s managing director, shared his excitement by stating, “It is truly gratifying to kick off this innovative development in Gorebridge. Scotland is grappling with a well-documented housing crisis, and Newbyres will play a pivotal role in meeting the demand for top-notch affordable housing in Midlothian.”

“We have worked meticulously with our partners at Midlothian Council to tailor the design of this development to cater to the diverse needs of the Gorebridge community. The end product will be a remarkable development with accessibility, sustainability, and community values at its heart,” added Lynes.