Minister for housing and welfare, Margaret Burgess, has paid a visit to new affordable housing soon to be completed for Melville Housing Association.

The 28 new homes, at Taylor Wimpey’s Cameron Gardens development in Bilston, were part-funded by a grant of £1.54 million from the Scottish Government, and made possible by Midlothian Council’s Affordable Housing Policy.

Building work on the 14 one bedroom and 14 two bedroom apartments will soon be complete with the 28 properties helping to meet the high demand for social housing in Midlothian, where there are currently over 4,000 individuals and families waiting for an affordable home.

Mrs Burgess said: “This government is committed to creating thriving communities, and good quality, affordable housing is part of this. This development, and investment from the Scottish Government, has not only provided a boost for the construction sector, but also offers families the chance to rent a new home at affordable rates, showing our on-going commitment to supporting housing associations and their tenants.

“These 28 new homes are a welcome addition to the supply of affordable housing across Midlothian, and I’m delighted to have seen for myself the difference they will make.”

Andrew Noble, chief executive of Melville Housing, said: “We were delighted to show the minister these new affordable homes, made possible thanks to Scottish Government funding and support from Midlothian Council. This is an excellent development, mainly comprising smaller properties which are in huge demand and demonstrates what can be achieved when working in partnership.”

Pauline Mills, land and planning director for Taylor Wimpey East Scotland, added: “We’re delighted to play our key role in the delivery of 28 one and two bedroom affordable apartments for rent for Melville Housing Association, and it’s great to see construction nearing completion.

“This project maximises our extensive experience in the delivery of mixed communities and multi-tenure developments, and it represents our successful partnership with Melville Housing Association and Midlothian Council in the realisation of our Section 75 obligations as part of the overall development at Bilston.”

The minister also visited Melville’s new offices at the Grade A listed Dalkeith Corn Exchange, made possible thanks to grant funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Historic Environment Scotland. The carefully restored building, which will be completed later this month, will provide a new office for Melville as well as facilities for the community.