Lovell Partnerships has secured a £10 million contract to build 80 new homes in Bishopton, Renfrewshire.

The new housing will be developed on land at Dargavel Village and completion is scheduled by 2019.

The new homes are funded through Council investment and the Scottish Government's Affordable Housing Grant, providing a mix of flats, semi-detached and mid-terraced houses. The units will be developed on land allocated at no cost by BAE Systems, who are leading the regeneration of the former Royal Ordnance Factory site into Dargavel Village, with 950 homes already occupied.

The regeneration project also includes a new M8 motorway junction to enhance Bishopton's connectivity to the wider region, with the first phase completed on schedule last year and expected to open in early 2020.

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As part of the contract, Lovell will create four jobs for people new to the construction industry and two apprenticeships, as well as a series of work experience placements, school visits and careers events. Staff will also be supported to complete qualifications through the benefits, developed in consultation with Renfrewshire's Community Benefit Forum.

Cllr John Shaw said: "We are committed to supporting the Scottish Government in its ambition to build 50,000 affordable homes across Scotland and in approving this contract, Renfrewshire Council will build high quality homes available for social rent and secure benefits for the local community.

"The contract includes job opportunities and qualifications targeted towards people with no prior experience to give them the chance to develop their skills and make that important first step towards their chosen career. It will also showcase the varied roles to inspire local school pupils and college students.

"This is another important step towards our local target to build 1000 new affordable homes in the five years to 2021, and in doing so create positive thriving communities and encourage people to come and live and work in Renfrewshire."

(LM)