More affordable homes for rent could soon be on the horizon in the Glenkens.
Local housing provider the Pamela Young Trust has acquired a site in Balmaclellan.
The charity currently owns 20 properties with sitting tenants on long term leases.
Now it hopes to build more community housing at an old filling station site in the centre of the village.
According to trust chairperson Steve Davie the land purchase was prompted by a survey showing a chronic shortage of accommodation locally.
He said: “The recent housing needs and demand assessment commissioned by the Glenkens and District Trust underlined the gap in local affordable housing.
“This is borne out by the length of our waiting list.
“Whilst it may be some time before building can start we are excited about adding to our list of affordable properties for local people.”
The trust is the brainchild of Pam Young whose family have lived in the Glenkens for generations.
It was set up in 1992 with the original aim of providing homes for retiring farm workers leaving tied accommodation.
It now welcomes applications from young and old, single people or families who qualify as potential tenants.
Latterly the trust has been keen for families with young children to apply in order to help maintain the viability of schools and facilities. Mr Davie described the development at the filling station site as “embryonic”.
But he highlighted that when the scheme got to the design stage the focus would be on providing quality energy efficient homes.
He said: “The intention is to create properties that will be attractive, affordable and environmentally sustainable – whilst enhancing the aesthetics of Balmaclellan village centre.
“Planning permission is in place for two houses but the trust will be looking carefully at the latest research on building homes fit for the 21st century before deciding on plans.”
He added: “In the short term, PYT plans to clear the site in order to provide temporary parking for local residents and those visiting the Smiddy.”
The Pamela Young Trust provides affordable housing across the Glenkens in Balmaclellan, Carsphairn, Dalry and New Galloway.
Pam Young died in 2008 but her legacy lives on – the current trustees all have strong connections with the Glenkens.
It also owns a small park between Dalry’s Main Street and Kirkland Street which it maintains for the benefit of the whole village.
