Persimmon Homes has hosted two new directors from South Ayrshire Council on the site of their Fairfields development in Monkton, where they met with workers and apprentices to hear about how the unique site is integrating Monkton's past with its future.

Mike Newall, Depute Chief Executive and Director of Housing, Operations and Development and Jane Bradley, Director of Strategic Change and Communities, were given a tour of the site, which features 286 new homes, ranging from one to four bedrooms. 50 of the new homes are being transferred to a local housing association.

The area's history is woven into the fabric of the development. The site includes two listed structures and a scheduled monument and the development has been specifically designed to promote the hidden history of Monkton by protecting and maintaining the historic features.

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The development's central, open green space is home to the Whiteside Enclosure, thought to be a settlement enclosure from the late Iron Age. Interpretive signage is being installed to give local residents and visitors a glimpse into the area's past and preserve the site's historic significance. In addition, street names within the new community have been linked to historic local connections – such as Orangefield House, where famous sea captain James Macrae lived.

Mr Newall and Ms Bradley spoke with the local team to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the housing sector, as well as how our investment across Ayrshire is benefitting local communities.

Chris Logan, West Scotland Managing Director, said: "Fairfields is a unique development that connects Monkton's future with its rich history and it was a pleasure to welcome Mike and Jane to the site and show them some of the benefits it will bring for the local community.

"Our Fairfields development alone has delivered 15% of the total number of affordable homes built in South Ayrshire in 2022/23 and we want to open the door to home ownership for more local families.

"We're committed to continuing to work in partnership with the Council and other local stakeholders to ensure our investment across Ayrshire delivers a positive, lasting legacy in the communities in which we work."