The £3.48 million project, designed by MAST Architects, will see 20 new homes on land between Robert Smillie Crescent, Glengonnar Street and Riverside in Larkhall.

The development includes 10 two-storey semi-detached homes, eight two-storey cottage flats and two one-and-a-half storey detached homes. As part of the development, the footpaths which currently run across the site will be improved and resurfaced and pedestrian access will be maintained. 

Cruden Building will start work at the end of the month and the development is expected to be completed by Winter 2022.

Councillor Josh Wilson, chair of housing and technical resources at South Lanarkshire Council, said: “I am delighted that construction is beginning on this site. This project is typical of many empty sites that have been re-used by the council to help meet the pressing shortage of affordable housing across South Lanarkshire. Like this one, these sites are in great locations, putting affordable housing where it’s needed in the heart of established communities.

“The council’s Home+ programme, supported by Scottish Government affordable housing grant subsidy, continues to make good progress in delivering new homes to tenants throughout South Lanarkshire.”

Michael McBrearty, chief executive of hub South West Scotland, added: “We are very excited that construction is to begin on the Glengonnar housing development in Larkhall. This will be our second housing project with Cruden as contracting partner, with works on the 48-unit Auldkirk site in Cambuslang currently underway.”

Gordon Lee, partnering and procurement director of Cruden Building, said: “We are delighted to begin work, delivering this modern, energy-efficient housing development for the Larkhall community. We will be working closely with South Lanarkshire Council and hub South West Scotland to support the local housing strategy and provide much-needed quality, affordable homes which will not only greatly enhance the lives of residents, but will also provide a substantial boost to the local economy as we provide valuable employment and training opportunities.”