SBHA owns and manages more than 5,600 homes across the Scottish Borders, from Skirling in the West to Yetholm in the East, and from Heriot in the North to Newcastleton in the South.

With current new build sites in Peebles and Kelso totalling 18 homes, SBHA’s plan to deliver 300 affordable homes will provide a significant boost to the communities within the Borders.

Chatham Financial, SBHA treasury advisors, supported the team to ensure the Association’s funding structure provided a best fit with short and long term aspirations.

Alongside the new developments, the facility will support investment in current Tenants’ homes in future proofing through improved energy efficiency and the exploration of technology to support independent living for a range of needs, and ensure a Just Transition to Net-Zero.

As a large employer of 148 within the community, SBHA’s ambitious growth plans will support further job creation locally as it looks to support the growth of regional supply chains

Julia Mulloy SBHA chief executive, said: “The flexibility of our deal terms opens new doors for our business as we look to enhance our current offering for the future and contribute to the economic recovery of the Scottish Borders with more much-needed affordable homes.

“It’s the beginning of what we hope will be a long and trusted partnership with Royal Bank of Scotland as it supports us with our continued commitment to enhance wellbeing, lives and communities across the Scottish Borders and shape our homes and services to meet changing needs and expectations.”

Alan Newlands, relationship director at RBS, added: “We are committed to supporting organisations with the construction of new social housing to help address the housing shortage in Scotland, so it has been great to establish a new working relationship with Scottish Borders Housing Association.

“We look forward to working with SBHA and supporting their strategic objectives of investing in energy efficient homes along with their new build development programme.”

Michael Leslie, director at Chatham Financial, commented: “It has been a pleasure working in partnership with the dedicated executive management team and Board of SBHA to develop a funding strategy to meet SBHA’s strategic objectives.

“This has culminated in the new facility provided by Royal Bank of Scotland which provides both long-term security and flexibility to deliver an ambitious and exciting development programme, benefiting tenants throughout the Borders. This dynamic association is now well-positioned for even greater success in the future.”