An amenity block for tenants in a new GHA development in the north east of Glasgow is contributing towards creating a real sense of community, housing minister Margaret Burgess has found.

The 157 new homes in Barmulloch also include an amenity block for tenants who need an extra bit of support. And tenants there are building a sense of community by organising social events and get-togethers in the common room.

The housing minister caught up with some of the tenants this week and saw for herself how new homes can change people’s lives.

Tenant Margaret Anderson, 80, moved from Ryehill Road into her new home in Torryburn Close last year and is loving her new home.

Margaret said: “This is the happiest I’ve been in a long time. The homes here are lovely and cosy. They have big bedrooms and plenty of space.

“Tenants use the common room all the time - it’s really good for bringing people together.

“We held a Christmas dinner and Hogmanay party and Burns Supper there and we have regular events, including soup and a sandwich get-togethers on a Tuesday.

“People love it here. Neighbours really look out for each other. It’s a great community and makes us proud to live here.”

Barmulloch is one of the areas identified as a priority for regeneration by Transforming Communities: Glasgow (TC:G), a partnership between GHA, Glasgow City Council and the Scottish Government.

The £13.9 million development includes £7.2m in grant from the Scottish Government.

Margaret Burgess said: “The Scottish Government is committed to making sure that everyone has access to a warm and affordable home.

“In Glasgow alone, between 2012 and 2015, we invested £230m and this development at Barmulloch is a prime example of our commitment.

“This £7.2m grant has helped to build high quality affordable homes and will contribute significantly to the on-going regeneration of this area of Glasgow and to the quality of life of local residents.”

Councillor George Redmond, chair of Transforming Communities: Glasgow, said: “All over the city, Transforming Communities: Glasgow is delivering high-quality new-build homes for local people.

“I am delighted to see these 157 new homes in Barmulloch improving the lives of residents and continuing the regeneration of the area.”

Tenants were closely involved in shaping the plans for Barmulloch.

GHA chair Gordon Sloan added: “Tenants in Barmulloch are really enjoying these new homes and bringing people together by organising social events.

“It’s another example of how GHA’s new homes are transforming people’s lives.”

The homes, built by contractor CCG, are a mix of one and two-bedroom flats, and two, three and four-bedroom houses. Ten of the homes are built to wheelchair standard.

Calum Murray, director of CCG, said: “The completion of this project is a real milestone for GHA and partners in the regeneration of Barmulloch and its great that the tenants are happy with their new homes.

“The plans were developed by GHA in partnership with the local community and throughout the construction programme we worked to provide a range of employment and training opportunities for local people.”

Contractors CCG took on 13 staff - including five apprentices - in a variety of trades as a result of its contract with GHA.