These new homes, which will be brought forward with no government subsidy, are aimed at addressing the shortage of accommodation for those families and individuals who are unable to afford the private market rent.

Local developer Headon, which currently has 69 private-sale homes under construction at Braeburn St Andrews West, will deliver a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments and terraced homes available for Intermediate Market Rental (IMR).

IMR offers an innovative approach to affordable housing, while qualifying criteria is being finalised, homes at St Andrews West will be available to rent at, typically, 30% below the town’s average private rental price.

Joe Headon, chairman and CEO of Headon, said: “It is great to be able to deliver these affordable homes early in the development of St Andrews West. They will provide long-term tenancies to people who have a need to live in the town and who otherwise are unable to do so because of the high rental levels within St Andrews.

“When considering this approach, we consulted with many local employers who highlighted ongoing recruitment challenges, mainly due to either high rent levels in St Andrews or the commute faced by employees living in areas with lower rental levels.

“At a time when there is a National Housing Emergency new, innovative ways need to be considered to deliver affordable homes. These home at St Andrews West will be delivered without Government subsidy thus allowing other affordable homes to be delivered within Fife.”

Work will commence in 2027 and will take approximately 18 months to complete.