Fraser Avenue regeneration project wins Scottish Home Award
Kingdom Housing Association’s regeneration of Fraser Avenue in Inverkeithing has been recognised at the Scottish Home Awards.
Winning the Affordable Large Housing Development of the Year Award, Phase 1 of the regeneration has delivered 53 energy efficient affordable homes for social rent at a cost of £7.9 million, with a further 130 homes being developed on a phased basis.
Built in 1956, the original Fraser Avenue estate in Inverkeithing comprised of three storey common access flats and was ranked in the top 15% of the most deprived areas in Scotland.
Fife Council took the decision to demolish the original flats and transferred the land to Kingdom Housing Association who was selected as the developing partner for the project to build, own and manage the new housing. Kingdom subsequently appointed Campion Homes as its design and build partner.
Driven by a vision of what a reimagined Fraser Avenue might be and inspired by the Rosyth Garden Village and extensive community engagement, the finalised design creates a safe, secure and enjoyable space to live with low density homes, clearly defined open amenity space and play facilities.
Overall, the project delivers an authentic sustainable new neighbourhood with a distinctive new identity for the community to break free of its image as an isolated stigmatized estate.
Kingdom Group chief executive Bill Banks said: “We are delighted to pick up this prestigious award. The Fraser Avenue regeneration is a great example of how development can transform an area. The project has helped remove barriers to build a strong sense of place, meet local needs and deliver high sustainability and enhanced environmental standards.
“This project would not have been possible with the support of Fife Council, the Scottish Government and other stakeholders, including the main contractor, Campion Homes, the architect, 7N, and the other designers who have made a significant contribution to the regeneration process.
“Most importantly, it’s important to acknowledge the local people, the project has recognised community participation and engagement at all stages and this has provided community direction and engagement.”
Julie Watson, interim head of capital investments with Kingdom, said: “Community involvement has been at the heart of the project and the success of Fraser Avenue is testament to the hard work and professionalism of everyone involved and their ability to identify effective ways to address challenges faced. The project has reinforced the need to work collaboratively to achieve mutual goals, share good practice and help recreate a sense of community.”