Rural Stirling unveils new Killearn homes

The properties represent Rural Stirling Housing Association’s “ambitious and enduring” work to keep on building affordable homes for rent and low cost ownership.

The development was formally opened by Councillor Willie Ferguson, convenor of Stirling Council’s Housing Committee.

Councillor Ferguson said: “We are delighted to support this development from Rural Stirling Housing Association. There are many challenges to face in the drive to deliver affordable housing for our communities, particularly in rural areas, which have seen increasing development costs and significant competition for housing sites.

“Strong collaboration with key partners such as Rural Stirling Housing Association is essential and these much-needed new homes will be warmly welcomed by the local community.”

The Killearn development - built by McTaggart Construction - comes less than six months after RSHA unveiled 14 new homes for rent in nearby Croftamie.

RSHA chairperson Fiona Boath said: “Affordable homes play a crucial role in supporting the communities we serve. There remains a consistent and pressing need for housing in these areas and we remain committed to our mission of providing affordable high-quality housing.”

The development costing £2.83 million consists of four one-bedroom flats, four two-bedroom flats, two three-bedroom houses and a single four-bedroom amenity bungalow. Nine are for social rent while the remaining two are shared equity properties.

RSHA chief executive Donna Birrell added: “Our new homes in Killearn represent a further step forward in delivering on our promise to keep on building affordable new homes across rural Stirlingshire. We readily acknowledge the contribution of the Scottish Government and Stirling Council in helping to make these homes a reality. The Scottish Government and Stirling Council share our vision of delivering quality affordable housing.”

Janice Russell, managing director at McTaggart Construction, said: “It’s fantastic to see the official opening of the Lampson development.  Rural communities like Killearn deserve access to quality, affordable housing, and working with RSHA and Macdonald & Cameron to deliver that has been brilliant. We’re proud to have played our part in creating homes that will make a genuine difference to local families.”

The new homes – in keeping with modern building standards - offer impressive eco credentials including solar panels, are highly energy efficient and economical to run.

In December, RSHA will mark 35 years as a housing association having been created in 1990. Since then it has delivered a total of 693 homes for social rent - reflecting its strong commitment to rural housing.