Big boost for more affordable housing in Aviemore
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Aviemore is set to benefit from 45 apartments and cottage flats which will be made available for mid-market rent.
It is part of a deal between the Highland Housing Alliance (HHA) and Tulloch Homes which will boost the Highlands' rental market.
The developer, part of the Springfield Group, has partnered with the not-for-profit HHA to provide a total of 75 new homes across three developments – in Inverness, Kirkhill and Aviemore.
Tulloch Homes has said the £15m contract 'will see high-quality and energy-efficient new homes for rent that will attract and retain people who want to work and live in the region'.
The development is being supported by funding from the Scottish Government, Highland Council, and the Highland City Region Deal,
MMR homes are typically lower than private rental costs and slightly higher than affordable housing rates, creating well-priced rent opportunities for both families and individuals.
On completion, there will be 30 high-quality two-and three-bedroom homes available in Inverness and Kirkhill with the lion's share of the properties being delivered in Aviemore.
The Aviemore homes will be created at Bynack More near to the Aviemore retail park.
A large part of the overall development has already been completed.
The firm will complete the construction of the properties for HHA who will secure tenants and manage the lettings process.
A selection of the 20 homes across all three developments are almost complete, with the first residents expected to move in from early 2024.
The construction of the remaining 55 homes will continue throughout next year, with phased move-in dates for residents expected until late 2025.
Gail Matheson, CEO at HHA said: “Ensuring that we have purpose-built, high-quality rental opportunities in Aviemore and Inverness is intrinsic to the success of the Highland economy.
“The rental market in the north of Scotland right now is frighteningly pressurised and if we do not prioritise the creation of such homes then the situation will only worsen.
"By partnering with Tulloch Homes, we are proactively protecting the supply of new rental homes in prime locations that are fairly priced for many families and individuals within the region.”
Sandy Grant, managing director at Tulloch Homes, said: “By introducing MMR homes at three of our flagship developments, we are future-proofing communities and ensuring a vibrant mix of homes.
"Crucially, we are delivering high quality homes across different tenures, allowing us to create communities that cater to different demands.
“New research recently published by Homes for Scotland (HFS) highlighted the alarming reality that over a quarter (28 per cent) of households in Scotland face one or more forms of housing need.
"Partnerships such as this are vital to create an inclusive and agile housing system.
“HHA has a proven track record of delivering MMR homes and we’re looking forward to working together as we progress our strategic partnership that aligns with both Highland Council and Scottish Government’s ambitious housing targets.”
Minister for Housing, Paul McLennan, said: “The addition of 75 homes will provide significant benefit across these Highland communities.
"Our rural and island communities play an essential role in our economy and by keeping people in the area and attracting others to live, we help sustain and grow them.
“Supported by £6.2m grant from Scottish Government, these MMR homes will increase housing options to the area and supplement existing homes for affordable rent and low-cost ownership.
"Working with partners, such as HHA and Highland Council, we will continue to support the delivery of a mix of affordable housing options across the Highlands and Islands.”
Councillor Glynis Campbell Sinclair, Highland Council’s housing and property committee chairwoman, said: “Affordable and accessible housing is a key priority in the council’s programme and we continue to work in partnership with HHA and Highland based house builders to build a portfolio of housing to improve housing options in key locations, particularly where availability of affordable and mid-market properties is much needed.
“Demand to live and develop business opportunities in the Highlands is high, yet suitable housing can inhibit the growth potential, the three new developments in Inverness, Kirkhill and Aviemore will offer vibrant new opportunities and create diverse housing options within communities.”
To find out more information on how to apply for a new MMR home at Bynack More visit: https://www.hhainverness.com/
