CALA Homes said the approval for the housing development in Bonnyrigg will unlock vital investment that will safeguard the future of a historic and popular golf club.

Local councillors voted overwhelmingly in favour of the CALA Homes development, which will see much needed family homes created on land currently used as a practice area at Broomieknowe Golf Club, Bonnyrigg.

The plans were supported by the golf club, whose members mostly come from the local area and that support was mirrored when Midlothian Councillors voted 13-2 in favour of the development, which is included in the council’s proposed local plan.

Derek Lawson, Land Director at CALA Homes (East), said: “This is a very important development for us, having taken many years of community consultation and careful design.

“So we are delighted at this decision by local councillors, who have proven very understanding of the project. This decision will bring real benefits to the local area, not just in improving prospects for a much loved golf club, but in addressing a shortage of family housing and financing improvements to the local infrastructure.

“We also would like to thank the surrounding community of Bonnyrigg, who have engaged positively with us. Thanks to that feedback they let us know they wanted access from Eskbank Road which our plans adapted to include.

“It was very important to us that these plans were passed at the local level, as opposed to an appeal to the Scottish Government. It reflects local views and opinions, and sets a clear direction for communities.”

The Broomieknowe plans are for 42 detached homes, eight cottages and six terraces. Acknowledging the importance of maintaining the wider greenbelt for the community, CALA has ensured its development will include open space.

CALA Homes (East) hope work could start as early as the summer, following the purchase of the practice area from the golf club. That would then enable the golf club to press ahead with its proposals to enhance both its course and clubhouse.