The first modular homes have been put in place at Harriet Gardens in Rutherglen, advancing a purpose-built supported accommodation village for people experiencing homelessness.

Developed in partnership by South Lanarkshire Council, Social Bite and The Salvation Army, the delivery of the Nest Houses signals the next phase of work, with the site aiming to open in early 2026.

When complete, the £3 million village will comprise 15 modular Nest Houses alongside a community hub featuring shared cooking facilities, spaces for group activities, therapeutic services and areas for social connection.

Day-to-day operations will be funded by contributions from South Lanarkshire Council and Social Bite, with The Salvation Army managing the village and providing specialist, round-the-clock support.

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Chair of the council's Housing and Technical Resources Committee, Councillor Davie McLachlan, said: "It's great to see the progress being made on the site as we look forward to it being ready to open in the new year.

"The project allows us to continue to expand and enhance our services to meet the diverse needs of homeless households."

Social Bite founder, Josh Littlejohn, said: "Having only broken ground in September, we're pleased to already be moving to the next stage of creating Harriet Gardens, in partnership with South Lanarkshire Council. The village will provide up to 15 people affected by homelessness with a safe and secure place to call home and break the cycle of homelessness.

"We have received amazing support from donors, each of whom have made it possible for us to create this space that will help more people develop their confidence and independence. We look forward to celebrating the opening in the new year with the new residents, our supporters and the local community."

The Nest Houses were built by Invergordon-based Ecosystems Technologies and transported from the Highlands to Rutherglen, with the remaining units due to arrive in December.

This is Social Bite's second village project and has been supported by Scotmid, the Clothworkers Foundation and BSW Timber.