A new development, built primarily for mid-market rent (MMR) by Port of Leith Housing Association (PoLHA) has been officially opened.

Some 23 new homes were constructed within a block of new, high-quality properties in Windsor Place, Portobello.

The development, which cost £2.9m, comprises of 10 one-bedroom and 13 two-bedroom properties and have been built on the site of the former Job Centre building.

The site is located within the Portobello Conservation Area, and as a result, the development is built from buff sandstone with detailing taking its influence from the characteristics and features of the surrounding Georgian architecture. Other features of the development include car parking and a communal landscaped garden area. High levels of insulation have also been incorporated into the building and photovoltaic panels have been installed on the roof in order to generate free electricity.

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Commenting on the project, Housing Leader for the City of Edinburgh Council, Councillor Cammy Day, said: "I am very pleased to mark the official opening of these much need affordable homes. They are the first of their kind to be built in Portobello for a decade and I am confident they will be of great benefit to the local community.

"Not only will they help to meet an ever-increasing demand for this type of housing but they also offer a very high standard of modern, energy efficient homes.

"The Council, along with its partners, is increasing the number of affordable homes delivered throughout Edinburgh and we are committed to continuing this trend, which also helps to support jobs and boost the local economy."

Keith Anderson, Chief Executive at PoLHA, added: "This is our first development build solely for MMR.

"MMR is a housing tenure which aims to help households on modest incomes to rent accommodation at an affordable level. The properties are let on Scottish Short Assured Tenancies at rents which are lower than average open market rents within the local area. Persevere Developments Ltd, the Association's non-charitable subsidiary, will manage the properties on a long lease."

PoLHA worked closely with the Scottish Government and the local authority which allocated £775,000 grant monies for the development. An additional £2.12m was funded through private finance raised by the Association.

(JP)