And it marked a welcome return to the east end for Housing Minister Kevin Stewart who got the building work under way just over a year ago.

Around half the families have now moved into the impressive £6.43 million development as Thenue Housing continues its drive to create much-needed new homes. More will receive their keys in the next few weeks.

The 45 new properties have been created in Rumford Street and Reid Street and consist of two, three and four bedroom homes.

The work would not have been possible without funding from the Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council which totalled £3.9 million. The remainder of the £6.43 million was made up of borrowing by Thenue which is common practice when a housing association builds new homes.

Charles Turner, chief executive of Thenue, said: “These new Bridgeton homes are another step forward for the local community as Thenue delivers on our promise to build new homes. We recognise those whose support has been crucial to creating this development – both the Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council. Without them this housing would not be possible. We thank them for their willingness to help us to create new homes and better communities.

“Thenue is delighted to welcome the Minister back to witness the delivery of new housing after cutting the first soil on the development in early 2017.”

The Bridgeton development has also been welcomed by the Bridgeton and Dalmarnock Area Association, a community group linked to and supported by Thenue Housing.

Owen Stewart of the Area Association, who is also chair of Thenue Housing, added: “Thenue has always believed that good housing is essential to creating vibrant communities. There is a real need for new housing in this community and local people will be delighted to see it happening.”

Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said: “It was fantastic to be back in Bridgeton to see the benefits this development has brought to the area and meet some of the first residents in their new homes. Supported with £3.9 million from the Scottish Government, the 45 houses and flats will provide much needed housing in the area. We are committed to delivering at least 50,000 affordable homes over this Parliament, and ensuring those meets the needs of people and communities across Scotland - backed by £3 billion of investment. As this development shows, working together with housing associations and others, I know we are well on track to meeting that target.”

Councillor Kenny McLean, city convener for neighbourhoods, housing and public realm, said: “It is great to see families living in these fantastic new homes in Bridgeton - another example of the many housing developments taking place across Glasgow. The council are delighted to work with our partners to bring these homes to the city and I would like to congratulate all those involved in the delivery of the project.”

Gordon Lee, partnering & procurement director of Cruden Building, who built the homes, said: “We are pleased to continue our strong working relationship with Thenue Housing Association to deliver this landmark development of 45 high quality houses which will make a huge difference to people’s lives. These modern and spacious homes have larger rooms, allowing families to interact more and with many energy efficient features they will be warmer and cheaper to run. The contract has been able to provide jobs to local people and boost the economy.”

The architects for the project were Mast Architects of Glasgow.