Irvine Housing Association and Home Scotland have announced the official opening of their new affordable housing development at Newbridge, Dumfries.

Councillor David McKie, officially opened the development. Irvine Housing Association Chairman, Tommy Farrell JP and John Rogerson, Vice-Chair of the Home Scotland Board, assisted.

Following the official ceremony Paul Hillard, Chief Executive of Irvine Housing Association and Margarita Morrison, Managing Director of Home Scotland, cut a celebratory cake, which was shared among the new residents to mark the start of the fun day festivities.

The event was attended by Irvine Housing Association and Home Scotland's Board Members and staff, together with officials from various organisations including the Scottish Government’s Housing and Regeneration Directive, Dumfries & Galloway Council, R&D Construction Group, Armour Construction Consultants and the new residents of the Newbridge development.

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Work began on the greenfield site in September 2006. The aim of the joint development was to bring much needed high quality affordable accommodation to the heart of Dumfries. The housing associations delivered this by building 63 houses that reflect the current style and trend seen in many new build properties today. Irvine Housing Association own and manage 34 of the properties, while the remaining 29 are owned and managed by Home Scotland. The development consists of a mix of two, three and four-bedroom properties, including three amenity properties and two wheelchair accessible bungalows. The properties themselves offer spacious accommodation that is light and airy.

Leanne Patterson, an Irvine Housing Association tenant said: "I am really pleased with my new home. It's great to have a brand new property and nice to have space as previously I was living with my Mum. It's also really handy for my work. I couldn't ask for more."

(CD/JM)