Johnstone Welcomes £14.2 Million Housing Development Kick-off

Construction has officially commenced on a significant £14.2 million housing development in Johnstone, Renfrewshire. The project, located on the site of the former Cochrane Castle Primary School, will deliver 70 new, energy-efficient homes as part of a wider regeneration initiative aimed at enhancing local neighbourhoods.

Key Takeaways

A £14.2 million housing development featuring 70 new homes has begun construction in Johnstone.
The project is part of Renfrewshire Council’s long-term housing-led regeneration programme.
Homes will be energy-efficient, featuring air source heat pumps and designated garden areas, with many designed for wheelchair accessibility.
McTaggart Construction is undertaking the build and running an employability programme for local young people.
The development is supported by funding from the Scottish Government’s affordable housing programme.

A New Chapter for Johnstone

The development marks the first phase of a broader regeneration scheme designed to improve and renew communities across Renfrewshire. Councillor Marie McGurk, convener of Renfrewshire Council’s communities and housing policy board, expressed her excitement, stating, “It’s really exciting to see work get underway on site.” She highlighted that community feedback has directly informed the plans, aiming to create “modern, high quality, energy-efficient and affordable council housing and create warmer, more welcoming places for people to live.”

High-Quality, Energy-Efficient Homes

The new development will offer a variety of property types and sizes, with a strong emphasis on accessibility and sustainability. Many homes will be wheelchair accessible, and all will feature designated garden areas. A key feature of the new builds is their high energy-efficiency standards, incorporating air source heat pumps for heating and solar panels. This initiative aligns with Renfrewshire Council’s commitment to achieving net-zero targets.

Community Engagement and Opportunities

McTaggart Construction, the contractor responsible for the build, has been actively engaging with the local community. They have hosted drop-in events and are running an employability programme in partnership with local schools. This programme aims to provide training, work placements, and job opportunities for young people interested in the construction industry, ensuring the community benefits directly from the development.

Janice Russell, managing director at McTaggart Construction, commented, “The Howwood Road development represents more than 70 new affordable homes, it’s about creating real opportunities and lasting impact for this community.” She added that seeing the excitement of future residents makes the work worthwhile.

Wider Regeneration Impact

This project is part of Renfrewshire Council’s extensive housing-led regeneration and renewal programme, which aims to benefit around 1,600 homes across the region. This includes both new builds and significant upgrades to existing council properties. Residents from Howwood Road have already visited the site, with some expressing their enthusiasm for the positive changes and a “fresh start” for the area. The project also receives support from the Scottish Government’s affordable housing programme.