Work to construct a new housing development in Kilmarnock is progressing well, East Ayrshire Council has announced.

The development, located at Rennie Street, is being built on the site of the former St Columbas Primary School in the town and is part of the local authority's plans to promote town centre living.

A total of 10 new-build affordable homes will be made available for rent on the site and consist of two single-storey two-bed specially adapted homes for wheelchair users; four two-storey, two-bed family homes, and four two-storey, three-bed family homes.

Work on site commenced in April and are due to be completed in January 2015.

The properties are being built in partnership with McTaggart Construction and have received support by funding from the Scottish Government.

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Housing Minister Margaret Burgess said: "This scheme has been supported by £460,000 in Scottish Government funding, underlining our commitment to delivering affordable homes in the area.

"The development is ideally located close to the town centre, and will provide a mixture of homes which will make a real difference to people's lives."

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council added: "Rennie Street, situated at the heart of a lovely conservation area, seconds from the Dick Institute and minutes from the town centre, will make an ideal location for our residents. As well as the homes specially designed for wheelchair users, there are also larger homes for local families. These homes will be life changing for local people."

Morris McTaggart, Director from McTaggart Construction commented: "Rennie Street will be a first class new build housing project which delivers traditional detailing and style befitting of the adjacent cottage housing and B listed Kilmarnock Academy. The energy efficient design and spacious layouts will provide quality housing in a town centre location. We are delighted to report that the project is progressing very well on site."

(JP/IT)