Fife residents have spoken of their delight after they received the keys to their new homes in Methil.

Ten families have moved into their new properties following a recent handover ceremony held at the Methil Brae site.

A mixture of one to five bedroom homes including semi-detached units, bungalows and cottage flats form the £12 million Fife Council development, which is being built by Robertson Partnership Homes, with timber frame supplied by Robertson Timber Engineering.

The site contributes to the council’s affordable housing target of providing 2,700 homes across the region by March 2017.

Councillor Judy Hamilton, Fife Council’s executive spokesperson for housing and building services, said: “House building is picking up pace as we enter this very exciting phase of our affordable housing programme and I was delighted to be at Methil Brae to meet with tenants, delighted with their new homes, and to see the progress on the completion of this development.

“The houses are modern, fit for purpose, and energy efficient, delivering on our commitment to warmer, drier, healthier homes which aim to tackle fuel poverty and improve living standards.

“As well as the very significant benefits to the people that will live in these homes, Robertson was able to offer fantastic opportunities for apprentices. The company is doing a fantastic job in contributing towards our target of 2,700 new affordable homes for Fife by 2017.”

Work on the site saw Robertson Partnership Homes transform an area of derelict, brownfield land into a development which will ultimately include 100 homes.

Stewart Shearer, managing director, Robertson Partnership Homes, said: “The first handover of homes at Methil Brae marks a huge milestone for the project and for Robertson Partnership Homes.

“Local sub-contractors have been heavily involved throughout the build and local apprentices have been given the opportunity to learn valuable skills and take their first steps on the path to a successful career in the construction industry.”

Tenants Kevin and Leoni Dewar, who moved in to their new house recently, said: “It is such a lovely place to live; very spacious and so comfortable.

“The house is well built with great insulation and lots of modern fittings. We are delighted with it and see it as our forever home.”