The £4.9 million development at Whitehill Court provides much-needed social housing in East Dunbartonshire, with Caledonia continuing to play its part in addressing Scotland’s national housing emergency and helping to reduce homelessness and child poverty.

For the families receiving their keys, the homes represent far more than bricks and mortar. They offer the stability of a secure home, lower energy costs and the opportunity to build a bright future within a thriving community.

A new resident of Whitehill Court, Denise Bruce, described the impact the move will have for her family: “The space and privacy that our new house gives us is life-changing. I know it will make a big improvement to our mental health. It’ll be great for my son to have his own space, as well as somewhere he can invite his friends. Having a home like this opens more opportunities and will help us to build a happier future.”

The development marks Caledonia’s first new-build housing project in East Dunbartonshire, strengthening the organisation’s long-term investment in Kirkintilloch.

Caledonia has been supporting tenants in the area since 2018, when Antonine Housing Association completed a transfer of engagements to Caledonia following a majority vote by tenants. This brought many homes in Kirkintilloch into Caledonia’s management and marked the beginning of its commitment to supporting local communities in the area.

Since then, Caledonia has continued to invest in Kirkintilloch, including the redevelopment of a vacant office building on Townhead into affordable homes in 2023. The new homes at Whitehill Court represent the next step in that investment, delivering high-quality homes designed to meet the needs of families and individuals.

The development includes a mix of 22 homes for social rent, including three and two-bedroom houses and one and two-bedroom flats.

Designed by NBM Cost Consultants and delivered by SIM Building Group, the homes have been built to meet the Scottish Government’s silver standard in Building Regulations. Features include high levels of insulation and air source heat pumps to provide efficient low-carbon heating.

The homes have also been designed with accessibility in mind. Houses have been developed to be barrier-free, while ground-floor flats include walk-in showers to support tenants with mobility needs. The development also includes four electric vehicle charging points for residents.

Julie Cosgrove, chief executive officer, Caledonia Housing Association, said: “Across Scotland, far too many people are waiting for a safe, secure and affordable home. Developments like Whitehill Court are part of the solution.

“These homes will give families the stability they need to thrive – somewhere children can grow up, neighbours can connect and communities can flourish. Seeing residents collect their keys and begin this new chapter is the most rewarding part of what we do.”

Shannan McAlinden, who has moved into one of the new homes with her four-year-old daughter, said: “I can’t put into words how I am feeling just now. It is a mix of excitement and gratitude that I have, and I can’t wait to make memories in this beautiful new home, all thanks to Caledonia.”

Housing secretary Màiri McAllan added: “The 22 affordable homes in Kirkintilloch completed by the Caledonia Housing Association are a welcome addition in East Dunbartonshire where there is a high demand for housing. Supported by over £2.6 million in Scottish Government funding, this development will provide families with warm, energy‑efficient homes in a thriving local community.

“We have a strong track record in affordable housing, helping to deliver more than 141,000 affordable homes since 2007, with more than 101,000 of those for social rent. Furthermore, we are investing up to a record £4.9 billion over the next four years, of which £4.1 billion will be public investment, to support the delivery of 36,000 affordable homes, estimated to provide family homes for up to 24,000 children.”

John Greig, construction director at SIM Building Group, said: “Sim Building Group Ltd and all the staff and workers associated with this project are proud to have partnered with Caledonia Housing Association to deliver these 22 high-quality, affordable homes for the Kirkintilloch community.

“Projects like this demonstrate what can be achieved through strong collaboration and a shared commitment to addressing the need for accessible, well-designed housing. We hope the new residents will enjoy these homes for many years to come, and we’re delighted to have played a part in bringing them to life.”

The development was supported by East Dunbartonshire Council and received over £2.6 million of funding from the Scottish Government.