McTaggart Construction is seeking approval for 62 new council homes on a vacant site off Airdriehill Street on the northern edge of the town.

MAST Architects has been appointed by McTaggart to develop proposals, which comprise eight cottage flats across two blocks, 52 two-storey houses across 19 terraced blocks, and two wheelchair bungalows, with roads, landscaping and 152 parking spaces. The development is designed to meet the requirements of Housing for Varying Needs Part 1.

G3 Engineers and Carbon Futures complete the design team.

In a statement accompanying the application the developer states that approval would enable it to hire three new employees and offer eight work experience placements for people wishing to gain experience in construction, as well as working with the council and New College Lanarkshire to support apprenticeships.

It also pledges to work with the Chamber of Commerce and Local Business Gateway to promote local recruitment and opportunities for small and medium enterprises.

Public consultations were held in February and March, attracting a total of two supportive and three critical responses, and this feedback has resulted in the introduction of planting along the Airdriehill boundary to ensure the houses are visible and help discourage speeding.

The road has a 60mph limit, though the developer has suggested reducing this to 30mph.

North Lanarkshire Council said a decision should be made by October 19.