Property developer to build affordable homes in Forres
A WELL-KNOWN property developer has won a contract to build new affordable homes in Forres.
Springfield Properties Ltd has had its tender for work accepted by Moray Council. The firm are now set to build 67 new houses at Ferrylea over the next two years.
“It’s fantastic news,” said a Springfield spokesperson. “Getting this repeat business at Knockomie Braes reinforces that we are doing a good job. It’s a pat on the back, especially for the teams on site who are building these excellent homes. And of course it means continuity of work security for our workforce.”
A total of 92 new houses are to be built in Forres and Buckie. The twin developments will cost a total of £11.5million, with more than £2.7million coming from the Scottish Government and Moray Council funding the remainder.
Once built, the latest houses will bring to nearly 300 the number of new homes to be completed in Moray since 2010.
Springfield have built nearly 200 homes for Moray Council in the last three years, allowing them to house 200 families. Their new contract is for affordable housing - identified as a need by Moray Council - and the Scottish Government. A high standard of housing has been cited as a critical element of a successful economy and a productive workforce.
Moray’s MSP Richard Lochhead, whose constituency includes Forres, welcomed the progress. “I am absolutely delighted that nearly £3million of Scottish Government funding is enabling Moray Council to take these projects forward and build much needed affordable housing in Forres and Buckie,” he said.
“This investment not only helps to tackle affordable housing issues but also supports vital construction work and the positive impact that has on the Moray economy.”
Forres requires new housing to enable people to stay and work here in quality homes at a reasonable price. Finding a place for young families has been difficult in recent years - the construction projects will ensure proper housing provision for future generations.
Forres SNP Councillor Aaron McLean agreed: “The new houses at Ferrylea in Forres will be very good news indeed both for construction and for helping people in the Forres area who are living in unsuitable accommodation due to a shortage of affordable housing.”
Springfield Properties Ltd is building 62 private homes alongside the new affordable housing at Knockomie. Knockomie Braes at Ferrylea will add to the choice of new homes in Forres for both private customers and those looking for affordable properties.
“Affordable housing is required as part of a planning consent and is a reflection of housing need,” said a Springfield spokesperson. “It ensures that new housing is available to everyone in a community who needs it.”
Work on the latest development is scheduled to start this month and finish in August 2015.
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