South Ayrshire Council is to work with partners to build approximately 1,000 new social houses over the next five years, its latest Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) has revealed.

The ambitious building programme will see around £68.5 million spent from 2017 to 2023.

So far, the council has built 233 quality affordable houses to wide acclaim from tenants and local communities. This high standard is set to continue with more efficient and affordable accommodation appearing across South Ayrshire over the five year period, particularly in the high demand areas of Ayr, Prestwick and Troon.

The council and other Registered Social Landlords will continue to work closely with communities and the Health and Social Care Partnership to ensure affordable housing meets the needs of older people as well as those with learning disabilities, mental health issues and people leaving the care sector.

Other priorities for the new housing investment include exceeding current energy efficiency standards and continuing to help tenants reduce their energy bills. The new environmentally friendly homes will also cut carbon dioxide emissions.

Councillor Philip Saxton, housing and customer services portfolio holder, said: “Our affordable housing build programme has been extremely successful with our largest development at Lochside a shining example. This is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about building communities and ensuring tenants have bright and spacious homes which can be adapted to their needs.

“We will be working closely with our partners to bring new affordable housing to the priority towns of Ayr, Troon and Prestwick, however new housing is also proposed for Girvan and Maybole and I am keen to see more affordable accommodation in rural areas too.

“This is a challenging target that we have set ourselves and our partners however, I am confident that 1,000 additional affordable homes can be delivered by 2023.”