Scottish Borders Housing Association (SBHA) has completed four newly refurbished homes at Whitefield Crescent in Newtown St Boswells. This milestone marks another step in the association’s ongoing commitment to improving housing stock and providing modern, energy-efficient homes for Scottish Borders communities.
This refurbishment project has transformed a former block of eight bedsit flats into four two-bedroom family homes. They are finished to a very high standard with high-spec insulation and Air Source Heat Pumps. Internally the building has been fully reimagined to create spacious and modern properties, with energy efficiency and the minimising of carbon emissions being key drivers of the specification. The original bedsit accommodation became increasingly difficult to let over time and has now been transformed into modern living spaces that better meet the needs of today's families.
In line with SBHA’s sustainability goals, this refurbishment project retains much of the existing structure, reducing waste and minimising environmental impact compared to demolition and rebuilding. The project has also supported the local economy by creating jobs and providing new apprenticeship opportunities.
SBHA has worked in partnership with contractor M&J Ballantyne and the design team members included 56three Architects, Bayne Stevenson Engineers, RSP Consulting Engineers and Employer’s Agent Langmuir + Hay. The support of the Scottish Government and of Scottish Borders Council through affordable housing development contributions has been instrumental in making this initiative a success.
Emma Garry, Director of Development commented: “At a time when we are facing a national housing emergency, every development - large or small - plays a crucial role in increasing the supply affordable housing. By investing in modern, energy-efficient homes, we are ensuring that more families in the Scottish Borders have access to the secure and comfortable housing they deserve. Deciding on the right solution for this building was the key, we considered various options but what we have created is brilliant and really does make the best use of the original structure. We are really grateful to the contractor and design team for working with us to deliver these wonderful new homes”.
Councillor Carol Hamilton, Scottish Borders Council’s Executive Member for Housing and Culture, said: “This project is a shining example of how we can breathe new life into existing structures to meet the evolving needs of our communities. By prioritising sustainability and energy efficiency, we are not only providing modern, comfortable homes for families but also contributing to a greener future for the Scottish Borders. I am proud of the collaboration and dedication that has made this transformation possible.”
