Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) has handed over the keys to eight new homes for rent in the village of Connel.

The development at St Oran’s Place, the first new homes for rent built in the village since the mid 1950s, provides eight new one and two bedroomed homes. It was built by MacLeod Construction to a value of £1.4 million. Thirty tradesmen and apprentices worked on the project for 14 months.

The official opening was carried out by John Finnie MSP for the Highlands and Islands accompanied by the children of Achaleven Primary School in the village who chose the name for the development.

John Finnie MSP said: “I am deeply honoured to have been asked to officially open ACHA’s newest development in Connel and to welcome eight families to their new homes. Housing has been one of the key issues facing communities across the Highlands & Islands and to see such excellent new homes being built is wonderful. I look forward to ACHA’s continued good work.”

Alastair MacGregor, chief executive of ACHA, added: “I am delighted we have these eight new homes for Connel. Hopefully they will not only provide affordable housing but bring children to the primary school.

“I am able to announce today we will be building a further 10 homes here with the support of the Scottish Government and Argyll and Bute Council.

“I am also pleased that John Finnie MSP has joined us today to open our new homes. John as an MSP has been a great help to the Association in working to promote housing for Highland communities.”

www.acha.co.uk