Mactaggart & Mickel Contracts has started work on a new affordable housing development in South Ayrshire.

West of Scotland Housing Association (WSHA) is working alongside the Group to build a mix of 34 new homes at Symington. The scheme also includes developing a 3,000 sq ft Co-operative retail store for the local community.

The Symington project is part of a wider growth strategy for WSHA, who plan to deliver 500 affordable homes over the next five years.

Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said: "Making sure everyone has a safe, warm and affordable home is central to our drive for a fairer and more prosperous Scotland and our ambition to deliver 50,000 affordable homes during the lifetime of this Parliament will help deliver this.

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"I am therefore delighted that our support in partnership with South Ayrshire Council, will help to provide much needed affordable homes that will meet the needs of families, older people and those with mobility issues."

Lynne Donnelly, Chief Executive Officer at WSHA, added: "We are privileged to be working in partnership with Mactaggart & Mickel to deliver Symington's first affordable housing development. These homes will be a fantastic addition to the community and will provide high-quality homes for families and individuals."

Councillor Philip Saxton said: "We've made a commitment to build 1,000 new social houses in the next five years and this development is proof that real progress is already being made.

"So far, we've built 233 quality affordable houses, with more on the way, particularly in the high demand areas of Ayr, Prestwick and Troon.

"We'll continue to work closely with Registered Social Landlords such as the West of Scotland Housing Association to deliver affordable housing which meets the needs of our communities."

The development is scheduled for completion in 2019.

(LM/JP)