Forth Housing Association has started the construction of a small development of eight homes in Dunblane without the need of a Scottish Government grant.

The homes, which include two fully wheelchair accessible properties, are being financed by a private loan and funds from a former charitable trust.

Thomas Brittain was a wealthy businessman who, on his death in 1964, left his home and funds to be used for the benefit of the elderly and infirm of Dunblane. Some 50 years later, with his former home having been sold, the trustees of his fund chose to close the Trust and, with the agreement of the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator, transfer the remaining monies to Forth.

The money will help finance the 1 and 2 bedroom homes, which have been designed to meet the needs of elderly or disabled tenants. The homes will be available at Forth’s standard rents.

Margaret Turner, chairperson of Forth Housing Association, said: “We are delighted that a little bit of innovative thinking means that we are able to bring some badly needed affordable housing to Dunblane and extend Thomas Brittain’s generous legacy.”

Forth has worked closely with a small group of local residents to make sure that the homes not only meet local needs but are designed sensitively, to fit into the local area.

Terence O’Byrne, chairperson of Dunblane Community Council, said: “As a community we’ve waited a long time to see a final legacy from Thomas Brittain’s funds and we’re delighted that the partnership with Forth is going to provide good accessible homes for local people in need.”