Construction has commenced on Midlothian Council's newest energy-efficient housing development, located on the former Danderhall library and leisure centre site. Contractor Ogilvie Construction has begun work on the £6.93 million project, which will provide 23 one-and two-bedroom flats across two blocks on Newton Church Road.

The development will also include car parking, access routes, landscaping, and a play area, with an anticipated completion date of summer 2026. These properties are part of Midlothian Council's wider initiative to build 207 council homes to the stringent Passivhaus standard, known for its high levels of energy efficiency.

Designed by architects Architype, the buildings are engineered to retain solar heat, significantly reducing the need for additional heating or cooling.

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Midlothian Council's Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor Stuart McKenzie, commented: "It's great to see work underway on our latest energy-efficient and affordable council homes. These homes are helping us towards our commitment to make significant progress towards net zero carbon emissions by 2040 while tackling poverty."

Councillor McKenzie also highlighted the broader community benefits associated with the project, including the creation of apprenticeships and job opportunities for local residents.

Grier Edmead, Operations Director at Ogilvie Construction, stated: "We are proud to be working with Midlothian Council again to deliver high quality, energy efficient homes in Danderhall. As always, our site team will engage with nearby residents to keep them advised of progress of construction work and ensure minimum disruption throughout the project."

This development follows Ogilvie Construction's ongoing work on another significant Passivhaus project for Midlothian Council – the construction of 90 energy-efficient homes on the former Newbattle High School site in Easthouses. This £25.038 million project is the council's most ambitious Passivhaus development to date and is expected to be completed later this year.