The first council homes to be built in Aberdeen in a decade are taking shape with roofs now fitted on the properties.

Aberdeen City Council is developing almost 100 new council homes on the former Smithfield Primary School site.

The extensive development marks a key milestone in the local authority’s objectives to roll out thousands of affordable houses in the next two years.

The two-phase scheme is being delivered by CHAP Construction and has been designed by North-east firm Lippe Architects.

Phase one on Provost Rust Drive will provide 12 semi-detached houses and are scheduled to be completed by May 2017.

Around 30 semi-detached and 57 one and two bedroom homes will be on offer after phase two is completed.

Aberdeen City Council leader Councillor Jenny Laing told the Evening Express: “We are making good progress on this site and it’s really encouraging to see the work that has already taken place.

“There is a huge demand for social housing and this project allows us to offer high quality, energy efficient homes for those who are struggling to meet private rents, whilst also regenerating a whole community.

“We are investing millions of pounds in our own housing stock with work also soon to get under way on another council development in Manor Walk of 79 homes.”

Cllr Laing added: “We are also the first local authority in Scotland to develop a partnership model with property development company Places for People which could deliver up to 2,000 new affordable homes to the city over the coming years.”

The homes will also be part of Aberdeen City Council’s combined heat and power scheme which will recycle energy from waste to provide low cost fuel.