Opened by pupils from the neighbouring Newton Primary School, the homes on King Street are grouped around a courtyard called Cross Gait.

The properties have been designed to a meticulous energy efficiency brief by John Gilbert Architects, with particular attention given to air tightness, insulation, and the choice of durable and sustainable materials.

The flats have glazed balconies which provide thermal benefits beyond the Building Standards as well as space for clothes airing and relaxation. All the dwellings have mechanical heat recovery ventilation systems.

Prestwick based Ashleigh Building has built the development to a very high standard, even improving on the rigorous air tightness target.

The total cost of the project is £3.1 million and a Scottish Government grant of £1.4m made it possible to rent the houses at affordable rents. The balance of the cost is being funded through a loan from Allia who are managing the Scottish Government’s affordable housing bond.