McTaggart Construction has joined forces with Smith Scott Mullan Architects, Harley Haddow and Scottish Borders Housing Association (SBHA) to break ground on 27 affordable homes at Linglie Road in Selkirk, a scheme intended to help meet local housing need.

The development will be called Rutherford Way, honouring Sir Walter Scott's maternal grandfather. Delivered with support from the Scottish Government, it is the first collaboration between SBHA, Smith Scott Mullan, Harley Haddow and McTaggart Construction, and also marks McTaggart's debut in the region.

Janice Russell, Managing Director at McTaggart Construction, said: "We're delighted to be breaking ground at Rutherford Way and to be working with SBHA for the first time. This development will provide much-needed, quality affordable homes for people in Selkirk, and we're committed to ensuring our presence here benefits the wider community and the local economy."

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As one of her final official duties before retiring at the end of May after 16 years as SBHA's Chief Executive, Julia Mulloy cut the first sod. Julia said: "It is a real privilege to be here to mark the start of this development. Watching new homes begin to take shape is always special, because each one represents a fresh start for individuals and families. Projects like this also show the importance of strong partnership working, with organisations coming together to deliver homes and opportunities that will benefit the community for years to come. We would like to thank Scottish Borders Council, as well as the Scottish Government for funding support."

A second joint scheme at the former Heather Mill site in Selkirk is progressing through pre-construction design. Recently submitted for planning approval, it would add a further 59 affordable homes, underlining the partners' commitment to boosting high-quality, affordable housing across the Borders.

In line with its community benefit pledges, McTaggart Construction held a Meet the Buyer event before works began, inviting local firms and suppliers to engage with the project. The partners are also building talent pipelines to create employment and training opportunities for local people.

All four organisations say they are focused on delivering homes to a high standard while creating long-term social value for the communities they serve.