A total of 49 of the new homes have already been completed and handed over to the local authority, despite the closure of construction sites for a significant part of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Residents have recently moved into the 21 new homes at the Kirkhill development in Penicuik, with a mix of houses, cottage flats and wheelchair accessible bungalows. A further 28 new homes at Clerk Street in Loanhead have been completed and handed over, providing a mix of cottage flats and a two-storey flatted block. Each of the homes are built to a high-quality with a modern design, enhancing comfort and incorporating energy efficient components.

Construction work at Morris Road in Newtongrange is progressing well and will provide a mix of energy efficient houses, flats and cottage flats. The extensive roads and drainage infrastructure package is almost complete and foundations for the 72 homes will commence shortly.

Construction of a further 144 homes is also scheduled to begin later in the year, with 72 homes at Conifer Road in Mayfield and 72 homes at Newbyres Road in Gorebridge.

Gill Henry, business development director of Hart Builders, said: “Hart Builders is delighted to have completed the two developments at Penicuik and Loanhead, delivering 49 high quality and energy efficient homes for residents. We have a long-standing relationship with Midlothian Council and we look forward to continuing our collaborative approach as we develop and deliver much needed homes in the region in line with the local housing strategy.

“As with all of our developments, we will work closely with the council to bring benefits to the wider Midlothian community. We will provide a number of initiatives on the project including jobs, work placements and training opportunities for people within the local area.”