The development, South Ayrshire Council’s largest affordable housing project to date, sees a total of 102 council houses built on the site of the old greyhound track.

The demolition of maisonettes started in February last year and the entire project has been completed ahead of schedule and below budget. Councillors were keen to see for themselves just how the new housing has transformed the lives of hundreds of residents and the wider community.

The development which was supported by Scottish Government funding of £4.7m is part of a £17m investment in new affordable housing across South Ayrshire over the next two years.

Minister for local government and housing, Kevin Stewart, said: “This is an excellent example of partnership working to deliver much needed affordable homes in the area. The homes are a positive addition not only to the families who occupy them but also to the wider community within Ayr.

“This government is investing over £3 billion over the next 5 years to deliver 50,000 homes as everyone should live in a good quality, affordable and sustainable home and have the opportunity to be part of a thriving community.”

Councillor Philip Saxton, housing and customer services portfolio holder for South Ayrshire Council, said: “It was great to see the finished houses; they are exceptional and the quality really does shine through. A lot of consideration has been given to ensuring the homes are energy efficient, modern and bright and have the space to adapt to the needs of our tenants who are clearly impressed with their new accommodation.

“Houses make streets but people make communities so it has been fantastic to hear the difference the new homes are already making. From the very start, locals worked with the council to ensure the project reflected their needs. The community will benefit not only from the housing but from new play areas which encourage health and wellbeing.”

South Ayrshire Council has worked closely with main contractor Cruden Building and Renewals on the project. As well as employing local traders on the site, Cruden created apprenticeships and also had eight council apprentices working on the houses to give them valuable experience.

Cruden also provided Braehead Primary with sporting equipment and gave materials to Braehead Nursey for a building project.