The initial handover of 32 new homes took place in January, marking a significant milestone in the transformation of the former livery yard and farmland site.

The £31m development got underway in July 2022 and was supported by £9m of Scottish Government funding with a £22m investment by Falkirk Council which has increased social housing to meet local demand.

The project will deliver a total of 111 new homes, consisting of 99 newly built one, two, three, and four-bedroom properties and 12 unique homes within the restored C-listed Woodend Farmhouse and Steading. The farmhouse, originally built around 1850, was once used as a livery yard, and its renovation will reuse stone from the original structure to preserve its historic character.

The next phases of the project set for completion are:

• Phase 2 – May 2025
• Phase 3 – June 2025
• Phase 4 – August 2025 (subject to the complexities of restoring the C-listed farmhouse)

Councillor Gary Bouse, Falkirk Council’s spokesperson for Housing, said: “Investing in high-quality, affordable, social housing is a key priority for Falkirk Council, addressing our housing shortfall and building communities where people and families can thrive.

“The development at Woodend Farm is a fantastic example of our commitment to increasing the availability of social housing while also preserving the area’s heritage through the complex restoration of the farmhouse and steading.

“All of the new homes on the site are designed to be energy-efficient, accessible, and adaptable to meet the needs of our residents now and in the future. We look forward to welcoming more tenants as the next phases of the project progress.”

The homes are designed to the highest sustainability standards, helping to reduce fuel poverty and lower carbon emissions. Solar panels have been installed on all properties to enhance energy efficiency, and all homes have been built with large bathrooms, private gardens, and countryside views to offer a comfortable living environment.

The council’s architects designed the new housing development and in addition to providing high spec new homes for rent, the team have also incorporated a ‘hedgehog highway’ into the fencing, allowing small wildlife to move freely between gardens, supporting local biodiversity.

Located on the southern edge of Callendar Woodland and just minutes from Callendar Park, residents will have easy access to green spaces, walking trails, and recreational areas. The site also offers excellent links to local services and schools, ensuring a high-quality living environment for tenants.