Ogilvie Construction has begun the handover of Midlothian Council's landmark £25.038 million Passivhaus project, delivering 90 new affordable homes on the former Newbattle High School site in Easthouses, just in time for Christmas.

The scheme features a mix of flats, houses and bungalows to suit different needs and lifestyles, including properties specially adapted for people with a disability. Built to rigorous Passivhaus standards, the homes are designed to significantly cut energy use and reduce heating costs.

Councillor Stuart McKenzie, cabinet member for housing, said: "These homes are a wonderful gift to our communities. They're warm, spacious, many with generous gardens, and designed to the highest energy-efficient standard, with comfort and sustainability in mind.

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"And while there may be no chimneys – thanks to the homes' ability to retain solar heat – for future Christmases, Santa's sleigh will have no trouble navigating the wide boulevards and beautifully landscaped surroundings."

Councillor McKenzie added: "With so many families needing housing in Newtongrange, Easthouses and Mayfield, it is terrific to see this high-quality development complete. But we won't stop here. The search for tomorrow's homes begins today and we're always planning on delivering for the future.

"These homes are a major step forward in tackling fuel poverty. Tenants will benefit from significantly lower heating bills, while the development supports our wider ambitions to reach net zero."

Grier Edmead, operations director at Ogilvie Construction, added: "We're proud to have delivered this transformative project in partnership with Midlothian Council. These homes not only meet the highest standards of energy efficiency, but they're also comfortable and built to last, creating a place where people can truly feel part of their community."