The Clackmannanshire report revealed that since 2012 a total of around 370 houses have been, or are being added to the affordable housing stock. New build completions account for 191 of the total, along with 80 ‘off the shelf’ purchases’. Included in the total are 130 units which could be added in the next financial year, with 40 units completed to date and 48 on site in Alva. It is hoped a further 42 can be acquired through off the shelf purchase.

The report showed that the spend on affordable housing in 2015/16 was £2,294,807 and included developments at Delph Road Tullibody and Ann Street Tillicoultry. The budget from the Scottish Government for 2016/17 is £3.654 million, and the council has developed a strong plan to take advantage of this increase. Planned developments include the building of 35 units in Clackmannan as part of investment by the Falkirk Pension Fund and 12 units at Todd’s Yard Sauchie delivered by Ochil View Housing Association.

There are also other affordable housing sites being funded over and above the main programme. In Alva where developers Tigh Grian is working with Link and Paragon Housing Associations to build 48 highly efficient green homes.

At the Glen development in Coalsnaughton, phase 2 is starting on site to complete a further 14 units for mid market rent.

Environment & housing spokesperson, Cllr Kathleen Martin, said: “It is important that good quality affordable housing is provided for Clackmannanshire residents, and this impressive programme shows just how much has already been built and how many developments are under construction or being planned. Having spoken to some of the delighted new tenants, I know how delighted they are with their new homes. Well done to everyone involved in delivering these homes, and I look forward to seeing the continued delivery of these much needed properties in the year ahead.”

Meanwhile, Clackmannanshire Council has confirmed plans to invest a £2 million award from the Scottish Government’s Local Economic Development Fund in the regeneration of Clackmannan.

This funding, along with £2m capital funding already approved by the council, is a direct response to mitigate the adverse impacts of the Longannet closure.

The regeneration project will build on the infrastructure investment which has taken place in recent years, including the construction of the Clackmannanshire Bridge and the reopening of the Alloa to Stirling rail passenger service.

The meeting also heard there is the potential for the construction of approximately 35 social housing units in the town.

Cllr Kathleen Martin added: “This investment is good news for Clackmannan, and will help to address the very real impact of the loss of well paid jobs following the closure of Longannet. Working with the local community, the council has developed a regeneration plan which was successful in obtaining this considerable funding award. Work will be starting very soon to help create support for local business to develop and flourish and to improve the environment of Clackmannan.”