Three of Scotland's leading Housing Associations are working together to help address the housing emergency in Scotland, focusing on providing homes for independent living.
The £17.5m housing project led by Blackwood Homes & Care will deliver a mix of 66 homes from two-bed flats to four and five-bedroom homes, using state of the art technology and design features to help people to live as independently as possible in homes in the Charleston area of Dundee.
Partnering with Bield Housing & Care and Hillcrest Homes, this innovative project showcases how a partnership approach can deliver much needed homes, during challenging economic circumstances. Bield will acquire 24 homes and Hillcrest 25, while Blackwood retains the remainder.
Each home is based upon the award-winning Blackwood House design and includes a range of benefits such as lift access, remotely controlled automated functions, and digital care and housing systems – all aimed at helping people to live as independently as possible.
Simon Fitzpatrick, Chief Executive of Blackwood said: “This partnership exemplifies our commitment to innovative solutions in addressing Scotland's housing needs.
“By collaborating with Bield and Hillcrest, we're not just building houses; we're creating homes that adapt to people's changing needs, ensuring long-term independence and quality of life.
“This new development illustrates the sector pulling together to provide the homes that are required across the country. We thank both Bield and Hillcrest for being such willing partners and look forward to seeing how this will change lives for the people of Dundee.”
The Charleston development is expected to welcome its first residents in the coming months, marking a significant step forward in providing adaptive housing solutions for individuals with varying levels of needs across Dundee.
Drew Moore, Director of Assets at Bield said: “Our involvement in this project aligns perfectly with Bield's mission to enable older people in Scotland to live their best lives surrounded by a supportive community.
“These new homes will significantly enhance our offering in Dundee, providing modern, accessible living spaces that support independence and well-being."
The Charleston homes have been built on sites in Liff Place, Gourdie Place, Gourdie Crescent, Charleston Road, Invercraig Road and Buttar’s Road and includes 50 two-bedroom flats, 14 four-bed homes and two five-bed houses.
Chief Executive of Hillcrest, Angela Linton said: "We're thrilled to be part of this collaborative effort. These new homes represent more than just bricks and mortar; they're a testament to what can be achieved when organisations come together with a shared vision.
“This development will make a real difference in addressing housing need in Dundee."
Fife-based Campion Homes was appointed as lead contractor in 2022 to deliver the innovative properties.