A new 30-home housing development has been opened in Aberdeenshire.

The Heritage Way scheme on Barrasgate Road features a mix of flats and houses, three of which have been designed for people with physical disabilities.

The scheme was supported by funding from from the Government's Greener Homes Innovation Scheme and was built with a focus on energy efficiency.

Designed by architect Gokay Deveci of Robert Gordon University, the properties were developed to support the promotion of energy-efficient housing, using innovative methods of off-site construction and low-carbon technologies.

Energy use and consumption in six of the properties will be monitored by the university for 15 months, and it is expected the information will help inform future housing programmes developed by the council.

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Speaking at the official opening ceremony, Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said: "I am delighted to have the chance to formally open Heritage Way and see the great benefits it promised become a reality, including those for disabled residents. This is a project that is matching affordable housing with the needs of the people. These homes will have a hugely positive impact, making a difference to residents and their families.

"These affordable homes also show that they can be accessible and of good quality, and energy efficient. I am very pleased we were able to support the development through our Greener Homes Innovation Scheme. This development and others like it shows our commitment to see at least 50,000 affordable homes delivered by the end of this Parliament."

Provost of Aberdeenshire Cllr Bill Howatson said: "Heritage Way is one of the most innovative housing developments led by the council, both visually and in terms of construction, and there is much we can learn from it.

"As we look towards the winter we hope the residents will benefit from the energy-efficiency measures that could help keep costs down."

(LM)