Keepmoat Regeneration has started work on a new £35 million 'affordable' housing development in Edinburgh.

The scheme will comprise a mix of 316 energy-efficient homes/flats on land previously occupied by outdated poor quality high rise housing at North Sighthill.

As part of the four-year programme, which is funded through the council's housebuilding programme and supported by £2.88m of Scottish Government funding, Keepmat has committed to offering substantial employment and training opportunities for local people via a Community Engagement Plan. A £25,000 investment fund has also been established dedicated to help local community groups.

Housing Minister Kevin Stewart and Cllr Gavin Barrier recently joined representatives from the local community, City of Edinburgh Council and Keepmoat Regeneration to celebrate the start of the build, with the contractor presenting the £25,000 community group contribution.


Eamonn McGarvey, Regional Managing Director for Keepmoat Regeneration, said: "Our launch ceremony was a hugely important milestone, as it not only marks the start of imperative housing delivery, but the start of our commitment to improve North Sighthill's social and economic prosperity.

"Our Community Investment Fund is just the start of this pledge, as we will be working with our partners at the council throughout the duration of this major programme, to ensure we are investing in the area as whole and offering opportunities for local people."

Cllr Gavin Barrie said: "This is another major step forward in the regeneration of North Sighthill, which will bring much-needed affordable housing to the area. This development is a key part in the Council's coalition pledge to deliver 20,000 affordable and low-cost homes over the next ten years."

Image: (L to R) Gavin Barrie Housing and Economy Convenor, City of Edinburgh Council; Helen Kelly, North Sighthill Residents' Association; Kevin Stewart MSP, Minister for Local Government and Housing.

(LM/MH)