Shawfair LLP has confirmed that housebuilders Bellway Homes and Miller Homes, with the support of Midlothian Council, will deliver a mixture of up to 358 new homes for sale and affordable rent over the next five years at its Danderhall South site in Shawfair after completing missives.

With construction due to start on site in spring 2017 subject to detail planning approval, the news of major housebuilders investing in Shawfair marks a significant milestone in what is currently the largest urban expansion project in Midlothian and south east Edinburgh.

Nick Waugh, director of Shawfair LLP, said: “We’re absolutely delighted that two of the UK’s most high profile housebuilders have agreed to build quality new homes as part of the first phase of development at Shawfair LLP’s Danderhall South site.

“This announcement comes at a time of great need for a quality mix of housing in the area and represents a key moment in the lifespan of the project so far as we look to realise our vision of creating a community and desirable place to live at Shawfair in the future. This is positive news for the area and will help to unlock further investment and create jobs in the construction sector and supply chain.”

Bellway Homes will deliver 236 new homes directly to the north of Shawfair Park, including a mixture of two, three, four, and five bedroom housing for sale and affordable rent.

Miller Homes will build a further 122 new homes of two, three, four and five bedrooms for sale and affordable rent at the east of Danderhall.

Andy Wyles, managing director of Bellway Homes (Scotland) Ltd, said: “This is undoubtedly one of the most exciting new residential developments in Scotland and we are thrilled to be playing a part in the growth of this vibrant new community, as part of our ongoing expansion in the East of Scotland.

“There is so much to recommend Shawfair to homebuyers – not only is it close to the city centre with its world renowned attractions but it is also just a short drive from the beach at Portobello and beautiful country parks.”

David Morgan, land director for Miller Homes Scotland East, said: “We are delighted to be involved in creating the first phase of a thriving and vibrant new community at Shawfair, which will completely transform the south east side of the city. Miller Homes has an extensive track record in building attractive, sought after developments and we look forward to working with Shawfair LLP to help deliver this ambitious project through the provision of much needed new quality homes at Danderhall South.”

The development of the new community at Shawfair, through a joint venture between Buccleuch Property and Mactaggart and Mickel, will deliver 4,000 homes, new schools, business spaces and public amenities over the next 20 years.