The Association purchased the site from housebuilder Springfield Properties thanks to funding from a Scottish Government grant and support from Scottish Borders Council (SBC).

Planning permission has now been granted by the local authority.

The Scottish Government has also given grant funding towards the construction of the new homes, with BHA funding the balance, and the work will be carried out by Springfield Properties. The development will contribute to SBC’s targets for much needed affordable housing for families in the Scottish Borders.

The development of 29 affordable homes will include a mix of house types comprising of four cottage flats, 16 two-bedroomed houses and nine three-bedroomed homes. It is planned for these to be completed by summer 2020.

BHA will be working with Springfield Properties for the first time on this development. They are well known for delivering high quality housing for registered social landlords and local authorities throughout Scotland and are committed to using Borders suppliers whenever possible.

This development will help meet the demand for affordable housing and addresses the housing needs of the area. The new homes will be of a modern and spacious design and will have high standards of insulation making them very energy efficient. This will also make a significant contribution towards helping tackle the issue of fuel poverty by keeping running costs low for tenants.

BHA’s property director Angela Taylor said: “BHA is delighted to be delivering these high quality affordable new homes in Duns, working with our partners the Scottish Government and Scottish Borders Council to provide much needed affordable housing in the area. We are looking forward to working with Springfield Properties on this project, our first development with them.”

Tom Leggeat, Springfield Properties managing director for affordable housing, added: “These homes, just off Springfield Avenue, will be highly energy efficient, keeping running costs low for customers. They are a short walk to the local shops and in a scenic, semi-rural location. The development will bring much needed homes to the area and create numerous job opportunities for local trades and suppliers.

“This is our first development specifically for affordable housing in the Borders and out first project with Berwickshire Housing Association - we’re looking forward to starting construction in the coming months.”