The deal marks the beginning of the second phase of housebuilding at Winchburgh, which will deliver a further 1,000 private and affordable homes by 2025.

Building work will commence shortly with the first homes from Bellway’s Winchburgh Grange development of 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes anticipated to be released for sale in June.

The new Bellway homes will add to the 588 homes completed in phase one. When complete the masterplan will deliver at least 3,450 homes, including 700 affordable homes of which 400 will be for social rent.

John Hamilton, CEO, Winchburgh Developments Limited, said: “This is an important milestone for the Winchburgh masterplan as we enter the second phase of housebuilding, taking a significant step towards delivering the full masterplan for at least 3,450 new homes.

“Many other areas of the masterplan are now progressing quickly, with work soon to begin on the new 75-acre district park, Auldcathie Park which will become the town’s largest green space and an important recreational area.”

Iain Allison, regional director, Bellway Homes Ltd (Scotland East), added: “The first phase of our Winchburgh development was a huge success and we are delighted to have secured a second parcel of land in this beautiful part of the country.

“This is an incredible opportunity for homebuyers to be part of a new chapter for Winchburgh which will see the area being totally transformed with a £1bn investment in homes, state-of-the-art schools, a marina and moorings, along with new retail and leisure facilities.

“So much has changed in the area already, it is incredible to see the progress that has been made in just a few years.”

Spanning 352 hectares, Winchburgh is one of the largest and most exciting placemaking projects currently underway in the UK delivering new homes, improved transport links, employment opportunities, state-of-the-art schools and stunning new outdoor spaces to the historic town.