Construction has officially started on the first phase of the Bellsmyre Regeneration project in West Dunbartonshire, a significant initiative aimed at revitalising the area with new, high-quality housing.

Caledonia Housing Association is leading the £7.3 million project, partnering with construction firm CCG (Scotland), which was procured directly via the Scottish Procurement Alliance. The project also involves West Dunbartonshire Council and the Scottish Government, the latter providing £4.4 million in grant funding.

Designed by ECDA architects, this initial phase will deliver 27 new energy-efficient social rented homes at Whiteford Avenue, with completion expected by Spring 2026. The new properties will include a mix of four, three, and two-bedroom houses, as well as one and two-bedroom cottage flats. These modern, comfortable, and sustainable homes are primarily intended to support tenants currently in temporary accommodation and those affected by future demolition phases of the wider regeneration.

The overall Bellsmyre regeneration project aims to transform the community over the next five years by delivering a total of 138 new energy-efficient affordable homes, which will replace 264 older flats. Beyond new housing, the project will also enhance public spaces, contributing to a greener and more connected neighbourhood for both tenants and the wider community.

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Julie Cosgrove, chief executive of Caledonia Housing Association, welcomed the start of construction: “Start on site marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Bellsmyre. Despite the challenges of recent years, our project team has worked tirelessly to bring us to this point. Our commitment to delivering high-quality, energy-efficient homes is matched by our ambition to create a thriving and sustainable community."

Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville added: “The regeneration work that has begun at Bellsmyre to build 138 high-quality, energy-efficient social rented homes over the next five years will enhance the whole area and create a more connected community. Backed by £4.4 million of Scottish Government funding, this partnership... will significantly boost the affordable housing supply to meet the needs of the local community for generations to come.”

Local MSP Jackie Baillie commented: “I am delighted that Caledonia Housing has been able to progress with the regeneration of Bellsmyre and build additional, much-needed new homes. One of the issues I hear about most frequently from local people is the requirement for more, better-quality homes. This development will fulfil that need and also create the smaller and larger homes which are lacking in the social housing portfolio.”

CCG Managing Director, David Wylie, said: “Having been involved in the regeneration of Bellsmyre since 2022, CCG is delighted to have now commenced construction on behalf of Caledonia Housing Association at Whiteford Avenue. Through the use of our advanced construction methods and low-carbon heating technologies, these new homes will not only address localised housing needs, but they will also help tackle fuel poverty and positively impact the environment."

Wylie also highlighted community benefits: "The legacy of the development will also be felt within the community with two jobs, one trade apprenticeship, and six work placements amongst the various initiatives that CCG will undertake during our construction programme."