Paul McLennan MSP toured the site, which will provide 42 affordable and energy efficient family homes near St Ninian’s and Glenburn primary schools, ahead of the handover to tenants that day. He described it as a “fantastic development”.

The social rent development in Adamton Road comprises 14 two-bedroom houses, 11 three-bedroom houses, 7 four-bedroom houses, 4 two-bedroom cottage flats, 4 three-bedroom accessible houses and 2 two-bed wheelchair accessible bungalows. 

McTaggart Construction managing director Janice Russell said: “We welcomed the visit and appreciated the time the Minister took to discuss the continuing challenges we are all facing in getting much need new homes onto site.

“We hope the Stalled Sites work together with the new Planning Hub will make a difference quickly in light of the continued high levels of homelessness many families are facing.

“It’s important to remember the social and economic benefits new build housing create, not just for the families who move into the new homes but for communities and all those in the supply chain.

CSR manager, Ross Hammell, added: “This is a lovely development built to the highest quality and standards. The homes will make a positive difference to many lives and the local community and will be very attractive to all ages, particularly those families with primary school age children. 

“The project has created 7 new jobs, delivered more than £2m in social and economic value and provided opportunities for 50% of local Ayrshire businesses in line with our commitment to deliver 40% of all sub-contracting opportunities to local business on each project we are involved in across Scotland.” 

The quality affordable homes, part funded through a £10 million Scottish Government contribution, were built for South Ayrshire Council in line with the Local Housing Strategy, Housing Needs and Demand Assessment and the Strategic Housing Investment Plan. 

A spokesperson for South Ayrshire Council said: “The homes make a significant contribution towards meeting existing local housing needs and we have been delighted to have worked closely with specialist builders McTaggart Construction to provide a mixed variety of homes as well as landscaping, paths and parking. The location near two primary schools will be a boon for young families.”

The Supply Chain Report commented: “This project illustrates how housing development transforms lives and strengthens communities. It’s great to see local businesses benefitting.”