The third phase in a £1.6million development of affordable houses at a village north of Oban can now get underway.
Argyll Community Housing Association (Acha) has been able to secure the final two pieces of the jigsaw to build the 10 homes at Connel.
Argyll and Bute Council confirmed planning approval, meaning that Acha was able to acquire the site.
The Scottish Government, the council and Acha had given a commitment earlier to fund the new development.
It will be made up of 10 homes for affordable rent comprising of four three-bedroom houses, two two-bedroom houses and four two-bedroom flats.
This announcement confirms the total number of affordable units on the site will be 28. The first phase of eigh units was completed in May 2015, the second phase of 10 units is currently on site and due to be completed in October. It is intended the third phase will go on site this summer.
Alastair MacGregor, Acha’s chief executive, said: “This is good news for those in housing need, for jobs, and the future of Achaleven Primary School in the village as the family homes will bring in young children.
“This is not just about homes for the future but jobs as 50 construction workers, including five apprentices, will be employed on the site during the contract duration.”
Councillor Roddy McCuish, chairman of the Oban, Lorn and the Isles area committee said: “I am delighted at the announcement of these much needed homes in the village of Connel. This will go some way to addressing the housing shortage in the Oban Lorn and the Isles area, but we must continue to build these much needed houses.”
The homes will be built by M&K MacLeod Construction of Lochgilphead. Kenny MacLeod, managing director, said: “MacLeod Construction Ltd are delighted to be working with Acha again on the development at Connel. Not only will this provide much needed housing for the local community, it will also provide continued employment for our workforce and allow us to provide much needed apprenticeships for the construction sector.”
