Housebuilder Stewart Milne Homes has gained planning permission for several new developments in East Lothian and made significant investment in land acquisition across the region.

Positive planning decisions have been awarded for developments in Pencaitland, East Linton, and Haddington, with an application to be submitted in the coming month for the redevelopment of Edenhall House in Musselburgh.

In total, more than 443 homes are expected to be built across East Lothian, with a proportion to be affordable to help address the critical need for new housing in the region. Careful planning and contextual design will lead to the creation of communities that are designed to reflect East Lothian’s heritage, the firm said.

Work on these new communities is planned to commence from summer 2018.

Careful consideration has been given to the look and feel of these developments to provide a sense of community and legacy. Substantial investments in landscaping, design and placemaking have been planned for each project to deliver aspirational places to live for first-time buyers, growing families, downsizers and young professionals. The unique and modern communities will include village squares, landscaped footpaths, tree lined avenues and orchards.

Modern infrastructure, including the potential for high-speed broadband connectivity, will be delivered in these communities.

With the announcement of the new projects, it will see upwards of £110 million of investment in working capital and generate additional wealth into the local economy. Stewart Milne Homes will work closely with resident contractors and craftsman to capitalise on local skills, knowledge and experience. It is expected that over 1,600 jobs will also be supported with The Orchard, Castle Gardens, Letham Views and Edenhall communities.

Gerry More, managing director of Stewart Milne Homes Central Scotland, said: “Our vision is to create a series of new communities in East Lothian that are fit for 21st century living but which incorporate traditional values and features from historical East Lothian towns and villages. It’s encouraging that our vision is being shared and recognised by the local authorities as evidenced by the positive outcomes from the planners and planning committees to date.

“We are providing thoughtfully-designed communities that will meet the demands of a range of buyers and mix of tenures. The Orchard, Castle Gardens, Letham Views and Edenhall are set to be prime examples of Stewart Milne Homes’ innovative approach to creating unique, sustainable and aspirational communities.”

Construction is planned to start in summer 2018 for Letham Views and Pencaitland, with East Linton following later in the year. Sales will commence in late summer and first occupations expected in spring 2019.