Plans for the site include 20 new homes, which comprise cottage flats, family homes and two wheelchair adapted properties.

Being delivered by Robertson Partnership Homes, the development forms part of the local authority’s new house building programme which will see 2,150 homes built by 2027.

Cutting the sod was Depute Provost and local councillor, Tom Castles. He was joined by Councillor Allan Graham, convener of enterprise and housing; Councillor Gordon Encinias and Councillor Tracy Carragher.

Also attending were Des Murray, assistant chief executive, enterprise and housing resources, NLC; Malcolm MacLeod, managing director, Robertson Partnership Homes; together with other representatives from the council and Robertson Partnership Homes.

Councillor Graham said: “It’s great to see the progress that is being made across so many sites in North Lanarkshire as part of our NL Homes Programme.

“Not only do these developments provide quality homes for local people but they also provide regeneration opportunities on a number of vacant sites within the council area. I look forward to seeing the homes taking shape and becoming part of a vibrant housing community.”

Malcolm MacLeod said: “The housing development at Old School Court is one of eight projects Robertson is delivering in partnership with North Lanarkshire Council, procured through Scape Group’s National Major Works Framework. Once complete, these homes will bolster the region’s housing portfolio, providing high-quality, affordable living spaces for local residents. We are proud to be part of such a transformational investment.”

Des Murray added: “All our new homes are built with energy efficiency in mind. In addition, they meet Housing for Varying Needs specification which means homes are more accessible to adapt to tenants’ mobility needs. The homes are also ‘Secured by Design’ accredited, which involves Police Scotland architectural liaison officers having input into the layout and designs to ensure we build safe and secure environments.

“We’re proud of our new build homes and I’m confident we will continue to make significant progress in improving local communities across North Lanarkshire and the lives of our tenants.”

The development is expected to be completed by summer 2018.