Got net-zero news, project updates, or product launches to share? Housing Minister unveils Forres’ new affordable homes
The Housing Minister, Paul McLennan MSP, recently inaugurated the new homes for rent at Ferrylea in Forres, marking a significant partnership between Grampian Housing Association, Springfield Partnerships, and Moray Council.
During the ceremony, Minister Paul McLennan MSP officially opened the Association’s latest development of houses and flats available for rent. He took the opportunity to meet with local residents benefiting directly from these additional affordable homes and explored the new energy-efficient development.
Expressing his delight, Housing Minister Paul McLennan said, “I am thrilled to have been invited by Grampian Housing Association to officially open these homes in Forres and interact with some of the tenants. With over £4.5 million in funding from the Scottish Government’s affordable housing supply programme, this development offers a variety of high-quality, affordable homes that will significantly contribute to the community.”
CEO of Grampian Housing Association, Craig Stirrat, commented on the completion of the project, stating, “Our goal is not only to construct excellent homes but also to ensure that both current and future tenants have access to desirable, high-quality living spaces where everyone can thrive and prosper.” He added, “We are thrilled to have collaborated with Springfield Partnerships to deliver these impressive new affordable homes in the Ferrylea community of Forres.”
The total cost of the scheme amounted to £8 million, with a substantial grant of over £4.5 million from the Scottish Government, and the remaining sum funded by the Association. The development, completed in three phases, comprises one detached house (five-bedroom), 22 semi-detached houses (two, three, and four-bedroom), and 20 cottage flats (one-bedroom).
Set on the south side of Forres, amidst picturesque countryside, these new homes offer easy access to local amenities and schools. Equipped with high levels of insulation and air source heating systems, the energy-efficient homes not only provide affordable heating for tenants but also aid the Association in achieving its carbon reduction goals.
Managing Director of Springfield Partnerships, Tom Leggeat, said, “We are delighted to have delivered these high-quality, energy-efficient houses in Forres with Grampian and to have met the future inhabitants.” He added, “It is reassuring to see the Housing Minister actively engaging with housing partners during this crucial time, and we are pleased to have contributed to the conversation to address the housing emergency.”
Councillor Amber Dunbar, Chair of Moray Council’s Housing and Community Safety Committee, expressed her excitement, saying, “It is promising to witness energy-efficient affordable housing as a primary focus for all partners involved in this development. The range of properties available aligns with the demand in Moray, and we anticipate continued collaboration to deliver more affordable housing across the region.”
Grampian Housing Association has a longstanding commitment to providing new affordable homes for social rent across the Northeast of Scotland, prioritizing high-quality living spaces to tackle the housing supply crisis.
