West Lothian Council will gain an extra 16 new homes for social rent for just £1 after agreeing the sale of land in Winchburgh to the Almond Housing Association.
The council’s Executive has approved the sale of land at Glendevon Park in Winchburgh to Almond Housing Association (AHA) for £1, subject to conditions.
The 0.60 hectares plot is restricted for social housing development and features as part of the efforts to increase the social housing stock in West Lothian - which already has one of the largest social housing programmes in Scotland.
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Almond Housing Association, a registered social landlord (RSL) operating in West Lothian, first approached the council in March 2021 regarding the potential for social housing on the site.
AHA have sought pre-application advice from the council’s planning service regarding a proposed housing development consisting of 16 semi-detached houses and cottage flats.
In a report to the Executive David Baird, the council’s property manager, said: “The site is owned by the council and is held on the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) and was formerly developed to accommodate low rise council flats and lock up garages. These have since been demolished and the area is used as informal parking by residents and maintained open space.”
Mr Baird added: “It is considered that the sale of land for the sum of £1.00 in exchange for 100% nomination rights for council tenants on the first let and 50% thereafter, represents best value for the council.”
As the sale was agreed, Council leader, Lawrence Fitzpatrick said: “The sale of this land to Almond Housing Association will help contribute to the council’s affordable housing targets and provide new homes for social rent. As there is significant pressure on housing supply the proposed housing development is a welcome addition to the supply of affordable housing in the area. ”
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