Located on the site of the former Coalyard Tearooms on the corner of Raploch Street and Caledonian Road, the project will regenerate the derelict land with 21 new highly energy efficient, zero carbon, one and two bedroom homes.

The project, which is being funded by the Scottish Government, South Lanarkshire Council and WSHA, is due to complete in summer 2027.

Karen Shaw, director of development and asset management at WSHA, said: “We’re thrilled to have begun work on our latest development in South Lanarkshire, which will provide much-needed high-quality, affordable homes for the local community.

“With this project, WSHA continues our commitment to sustainability with homes being heated through an efficient, zero carbon, communal ground source heat pump. It’s fantastic to build on our established partnership with Building Craftsmen Dumfries Ltd, and to grow the community we have in Larkhall.”

William Hewitson, director of Building Craftsmen Dumfries, said: “Building Craftsmen are delighted to be appointed the main builders for this project. Due to historical coal mining in the area, the Raploch Street build is a challenging one, requiring us to grout and cap the existing mine shaft on site and build ring beams for the foundations, but we’re excited to enable the transformation of this derelict site into attractive, affordable new homes that will enhance the neighbourhood.

“The design of the 21 homes is in line with the Scottish Government’s Net Zero ambitions, with no fossil fuels being used for the heating or hot water within the building. Ground source heat pumps will provide the heating and hot water on this project: a cleaner and more efficient energy source that will also tackle issues of fuel poverty for tenants. Working with West of Scotland Housing Association has been a privilege and we are looking forward to the completion of this exciting project.”

Davy Russell, MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, said: “Projects like this are exactly what we need in Larkhall. Time and again, constituents speak to me about the lack of affordable, warm, modern housing. In terms of absolute numbers and absolute need, it is the most pressing issue, so it is great to see work underway here.

“We need a new generation of housing across private ownership, housing associations and council housing to meet the needs of constituents, and I look forward to working with organisations like West of Scotland Housing Association to make that happen.”

Imogen Walker, MP for Hamilton and Clyde Valley, said: “Thank you to everyone at Raploch Street for the warm welcome. It was good to see work underway on the new homes being delivered by West of Scotland Housing Association and to hear how they will support families and jobs in Larkhall.

“Across Scotland, too many people are stuck in temporary or unsuitable accommodation, without the security of a home they can rely on. That is why developments like these, which provide good quality homes for local families, are so important. I’ll keep pushing to make sure progress like this continues across Hamilton and Clyde Valley.”