Housing Minister sees for himself how North Toryglen is transformed
The first phase of the award-winning North Toryglen development has seen 100 new, spacious energy-efficient homes for Glasgow Housing Association (GHA) already complete, along with 55 for private sale by Cruden Homes.
Housing Minister Kevin Stewart joined GHA Board member Kate Willis, local elected members, GHA tenants and staff as well as representatives from contractors Cruden, Glasgow City Council and the Scottish Government to meet some of the new tenants and see how the area has changed.
North Toryglen is one of eight areas in Glasgow earmarked as a priority for regeneration by Transforming Communities: Glasgow (TC:G), a partnership between Glasgow City Council, the Scottish Government and GHA.
A 120-bed care home for older people operated by Glasgow City Council has also been built along with a new play park and improved facilities at a community centre.
GHA tenant Helen McBride, who has lived in the area for 39 years, moved into her new two-bedroom home in Crossbank Crescent at the end of last year.
Helen, 55, said:
“My new home is perfect. It’s lovely and warm, and I’m paying less on my bills – and it’s great having a back garden, too.
“My mobility is restricted and there are adaptations, including a walk-in shower. It’s all on one level, too, so it’s ideal for me.
“I’ve always loved living in North Toryglen. I feel very comfortable that I know my neighbours already. It’s a real close-knit community, and the homes have made a real difference to the whole area.”
Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said:
“The completion of this project is a huge milestone in the regeneration of North Toryglen.
“I am pleased the Scottish Government was able to provide £4.6 million of grant funding for this project. The 100 affordable, high-quality new homes will make a real difference to the local community.
“We have committed to deliver 50,000 more affordable homes over the next five years, backed up with investment of more than £3 billion. Projects such as this one today mark another step on road to delivering that pledge.”
The £9.9 million development from GHA – which is part of Wheatley Group, Scotland’s largest housing, care and property-management group – was built by contractors Crudens.
The homes are a mix of 66 houses and 34 flats, with 10 of the homes designed to wheelchair standard.
Kate Willis, GHA Board member and Chair of GHA’s South Area Committee, said:
“I’m delighted Helen is enjoying life in her new home.
“The homes are modern, spacious and energy-efficient, meaning tenants will save money on their bills, too.
“GHA has worked closely with local residents and our partners in North Toryglen, and it’s great to see the area transformed.”
The development in North Toryglen won ‘Best Affordable Housing Development’ at the Herald Property Awards last week.
Allan Callaghan, Managing Director for Cruden Homes West, said:
“Cruden is delighted to have worked with GHA to design and construct a mixture of social houses for rent and affordable private housing in North Toryglen.
“These high-quality, energy efficient and eco-friendly homes will deliver many benefits, including reduced fuel bills for residents.
“We’re pleased to be playing our part in transforming the area into a modern and vibrant new community.”
GHA is currently demolishing two blocks at 99 and 101 Prospecthill Circus using a long-reach machine.
The demolition of the two remaining blocks should be complete by Christmas, with the site cleared by early 2017.
Future regeneration plans for North Toryglen include 49 homes for private sale and new shop units.
Pictured: Housing Minister Kevin Stewart with GHA tenants and staff, local elected members and representatives from the Scottish Government, Glasgow City Council and contractors at the opening of the new GHA homes in North Toryglen.