More than 100 homes will benefit from new energy-efficient double-glazed windows and doors, with 49 homes also set to benefit from multi-measure energy efficiency upgrades.

Both packages of works will enhance the energy efficiency of these homes, helping Trust customers to reduce their energy consumption and costs.

The multi-measure energy efficiency works will see new installations, including cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, solar panels, battery storage, new ventilation systems and new zero emissions heating systems (in some homes). Following a recent procurement exercise, a contractor is planned to be appointed in January 2024, with the works expected to start in Spring 2024.

Meanwhile, Sidey Solutions Limited has been appointed to install new PVC-U windows and doors to over 100 homes across the island in the towns and villages of Brodick, Whiting Bay, Lamlash, Shiskine, Corrie and Kilmory. These works are expected to begin in September 2024.

As a result of these works, Trust also hoped to secure thousands of pounds through contractual community benefits, which will help bolster their ‘Hardship Fund’. The Trust Hardship Fund was put place in 2023 to help support customers who require financial support through the current cost of living crisis. The fund (currently totalling £60k) can be accessed by Trust customers most in need to help with the cost of food, utility bills and other essential household expenses.

Jackie McIntosh, director of assets & sustainability, said: “We are delighted to announce these two major packages of works across the island. These two projects will hugely benefit customers on Arran, particularly in terms of energy efficiency, making our customer’s homes warmer and easier to heat.

“We are also pleased to be able to increase our hardship fund as a result of these works to provide much needed additional financial support to Trust customers on the island.”

Steve Hardy, joint managing director of Sidey Group, said: “We have enjoyed a long and successful partnership with Trust Housing Association and are delighted to be awarded the window and door replacement works on the Isle of Arran as part of Trust’s energy efficiency investment programmes. Sidey is focused on working with our customers to provide energy efficient products and solutions, resulting in a better quality of life and a more sustainable way of living.

“These works will help achieve this goal, particularly considering the global uncertainty in energy markets and by working in partnership with Trust we can also help reduce fuel poverty for their tenants.”