Caledonia Housing Association (CHA) welcomed Cabinet Secretary for Housing, Màiri McAllan, to Bellsmyre in West Dunbartonshire to tour the first new energy-efficient homes delivered as part of a major regeneration programme.

This initial phase has completed 27 new, high-quality social rented homes and represents a £7.3 million investment. This was supported by a £4.4 million grant from the Scottish Government and delivered in partnership with CCG (Scotland) Ltd and West Dunbartonshire Council.

The wider Bellsmyre regeneration project is a long-term plan that will deliver 138 new energy-efficient affordable homes over the next five years, replacing 264 older flats. The new homes are built to meet Building Regulations Silver Aspects 1 & 2 standards, with typical annual water and space heating costs estimated at just £250–£300 for a two-bedroom house.

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Cabinet Secretary Màiri McAllan said the visit was a reminder of the impact a "thoughtful development can have". She continued: "As we mark Climate Week, I'm pleased to see that these energy-efficient homes will significantly reduce fuel costs helping to build a greener, more connected community."

The project is also providing employment and skills, with Ms McAllan meeting two of CCG's fourth-year apprentice bricklayers, Reiss Fox and Kevin Docherty.

Julie Cosgrove, Chief Executive of CHA, said welcoming the Cabinet Secretary was a proud day and an important milestone as they look forward to progressing the project, which will "revitalise the area and help to foster a more connected and vibrant community for generations to come".