The first residents have moved in to a new affordable housing development in South Ayrshire and they are already feeling the benefits of the move.

Earls Green in Troon is a partnership between West of Scotland Housing Association (WSHA) and Stewart Milne Homes, with the affordable housing being funded by the Scottish Government and WSHA.

On completion of phase 1 of the development, it will feature 52 new homes for social rent including a range of house types suitable for individuals, families and those with restricted mobility.

Shannon Green, who lives with her young son in a two-bedroom property, said: “This is my first home and it is more than I could ever dreamed of. The house is lovely and the big rooms give me and my little boy plenty of space. It is great for my son to have the safety of playing in his own garden. It is a great community and we love it here.”

Another new tenant, Julia Chalmers, who lives in one of the wheelchair adapted properties, added: “My previous home had steps which meant I couldn’t get out much and sometimes felt like a prisoner. My new home is great as it has ramp access which gives me the freedom to come and go as I please. I love gardening and can’t wait to make use of my garden in the summer.”

Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said: “I am delighted to see the completion of the Earls Green development, providing Troon with much needed affordable homes, for families, older people and those with additional mobility requirements.

“Supported by almost £4.7 million Scottish Government investment, through the Affordable Housing Supply Programme, it is a great example of how we are helping provide the right homes, in the right places, and to a standard anyone would be proud to call home – a core part of our drive to make Scotland a fairer and more prosperous country.

“We are committed to delivering at least 50,000 affordable homes over this Parliament - backed by £3 billion of investment. As this projects shows, working together with housing associations and others, I am confident that target can be achieved.”

Lynne Donnelly, chief executive officer at WSHA, added: “We are privileged to be working in partnership with Stewart Milne Homes to deliver this affordable housing development in Troon. These high-quality homes for families and individuals are a fantastic addition to the community and it is great to see how our homes have made such a positive difference to our tenants, such as Shannon and Julia.”

Marlyn Boal, sales and marketing director at Stewart Milne Homes, added: “We are delighted to welcome new residents to Earl’s Green and are honoured to be working in partnership with West of Scotland Housing Association (WSHA), to provide high quality homes in fantastic surroundings. Earl’s Green is a thriving community located in the heart of the Ayrshire coast and there is lots on offer for residents of all ages. It is lovely to hear the new residents settling in enjoying their new surroundings and we wish them well in their new homes.”