The team behind the regeneration project at Pennywell in Edinburgh is celebrating after being named City Housing Regeneration Project of the Year at the 2016 Scottish Property Awards.

The Pennywell project, which is being delivered by regeneration company Urban Union in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council, was rewarded for its inspiring approach to delivering social housing and regenerating the local area.

The awards - which are in their third year - celebrate excellence in commercial and public property and awarded 18 winners from across Scotland across 16 different categories.

Craig Kidd of Urban Union said: “We’re delighted Pennywell has been recognised by the Scottish Property Awards as a leading city development. Our vision is not just building homes but building strong communities, and to pick up this award is a testament to all involved.”

Pennywell Living is the result of a major investment of £42 million by The City of Edinburgh Council’s 21st Century Homes programme, which will see Urban Union deliver 356 new social and mid-market homes for rent from the council, alongside 363 new properties for private sale.

Fiona Morton, chair of the Scottish Property Awards judging panel, said: “Congratulations to all our finalists and winners announced in the 3rd Scottish Property Awards. I know how tough the competition is and how important it is to win.

“Judging was a terrific opportunity to assess the many great developments going on in our sector across the country and encouraging seeing some really good examples of regeneration, innovative design and excellent sales and marketing.

“The aim of the Scottish Property Awards is to stage a credible and independent competition which promotes the best in commercial and public property. It is hard work but also immensely rewarding for everyone involved. I hope the winners make the most of their win and shout it from the roof tops.”

Councillor Cammy Day, housing leader for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Winning this prestigious award is great news for the community of north Edinburgh and shows the Capital Coalition’s commitment to regenerating Pennywell and Muirhouse is being recognised nationally.

“The award comes on the same day the area received £1.5m in regeneration funding from the Scottish Government and follows last month’s commitment between the council and our partner housing associations to provide an extra 16,000 affordable homes in the city.”

Stuart Bishop, architecture director on the Pennywell project for Barton Wilmore, added: “We are delighted to have been the designers of this award winning project, it is one that we are extremely proud of and passionate about. The development clearly demonstrates the hard work of all involved over a number of years.

“We know that the Pennywell development is creating a positive change for the local community and this successful regeneration programme will only become more effective with the delivery of future housing phases.”

The development is part of a much wider regeneration programme, which will create new public open spaces, apprenticeships for local people and a community benefits programme providing a range of activities and events for local people.