West of Scotland Housing Association (WSHA) has officially broken ground on a new residential development in Larkhall Town Centre. The project, located at Raploch Street and Caledonian Road, will transform the site of the former Coalyard Tearooms into 21 affordable one and two-bedroom flats.

The development is a collaborative effort between WSHA, South Lanarkshire Council, and the Scottish Government, with construction being carried out by Building Craftsmen Dumfries Ltd. Designed to meet Net Zero ambitions, the homes will feature zero-carbon heating and hot water provided by a communal ground source heat pump system, aimed at reducing energy costs for future tenants.

The construction phase involves significant remedial work due to the site's industrial heritage. Contractors are currently grouting and capping an existing mine shaft and installing ring beams for the foundations to ensure the stability of the new structures.

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Karen Shaw, Director of Development and Asset Management at WSHA, said: "We're thrilled to have begun work on our latest development in South Lanarkshire, which will provide much-needed high-quality, affordable homes for the local community. With this project, WSHA continues our commitment to sustainability with homes being heated through an efficient, zero carbon, communal ground source heat pump. It's fantastic to build on our established partnership with Building Craftsmen Dumfries Ltd, and to grow the community we have in Larkhall."

Local elected members attended the commencement ceremony to welcome the investment. Davy Russell, MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, noted the pressing need for modern housing, while Imogen Walker, MP for Hamilton and Clyde Valley, highlighted the importance of such developments in reducing reliance on temporary accommodation.

William Hewitson, Director of Building Craftsmen Dumfries, said: "Building Craftsmen are delighted to be appointed the main builders for this project. Due to historical coal mining in the area, the Raploch Street build is a challenging one, requiring us to grout and cap the existing mine shaft on site and build ring beams for the foundations, but we're excited to enable the transformation of this derelict site into attractive, affordable new homes that will enhance the neighbourhood."

The project is scheduled for completion in summer 2027.