An affordable housing development with an adjoining church has been described as ‘divine’ by its new residents.

Tenants at Sanctuary Scotland Housing Association’s recently completed the block of 24 flats in Glasgow for people aged 55-plus can see the light from the £2.7 million project’s two roof gardens and through its large external windows.

Anniesland Methodist Church gave Sanctuary Scotland the Sutcliffe Road site in return for a new hall on the ground floor.

Brenda Higgins, 62, who moved into the block before Christmas, said: “I love my flat, the natural light and the shared roof gardens. It’s great that we can go outside without even leaving the building.

“Housing older people together will help the block become a true community. I feel safe and settled already.”

The old church building was demolished and replaced with a modern, community-friendly facility. Tenants live in flats over five floors above the new church hall.

The solar-powered communal hot water system shared by the one and two bedroom homes is environmentally friendly and reduces fuel costs.

Sanctuary Scotland built the block in partnership with Glasgow City Council and the Scottish Government, thanks in part to a £1.2 million grant.

Reverend Andrew Baker, of Anniesland Methodist Church, said: “Our new home enables us to worship safely in the dry and better serves the local community.

“While the memories made in the old building will never be forgotten, our new home offers possibilities the old one never could.”

Sanctuary Scotland staff formally welcomed the block’s residents at a lunch event in the church hall.

Gordon Laurie, director – Sanctuary in Scotland, said: “Our tenants have been overwhelmingly positive about a development designed with older people in mind.”