27 homes completed as part of £7m Bellsmyre regeneration

The milestone was celebrated by Caledonia Housing Association as part of the first phase of its £7.3 million Bellsmyre regeneration in West Dunbartonshire.

Developed in partnership with CCG (Scotland) and West Dunbartonshire Council, the project aims to transform the neighbourhood with 138 energy-efficient homes over the next five years.

The houses were built as part of the first phase of its £7.3 million Bellsmyre regeneration in West Dunbartonshire. (Image: Supplied)

Julie Cosgrove, chief executive of Caledonia Housing Association, said: "This marks a significant milestone for Bellsmyre and everyone involved.

"It is fantastic to see the first new homes completed and to celebrate this achievement alongside our partners and the local community.

"This regeneration is about more than bricks and mortar – it is about creating a place where people can thrive.

"By working collaboratively with West Dunbartonshire Council and the Scottish Government, we are delivering high-quality, energy-efficient homes that respond directly to the housing emergency and provide long-term benefits for current and future residents.

"We now look ahead with confidence to the next phase of delivery."

The homes are designed to be modern, accessible, and energy efficient, helping families transition from temporary housing and those affected by future demolition within the regeneration scheme.

The broader Bellsmyre project is supported by £4.4 million in Scottish Government funding and directly supports the Scottish Government’s Housing Emergency Action Plan.

Housing secretary Màiri McAllan said: "Following my visit to the Bellsmyre site in September last year, I’m delighted the first 27 high-quality, energy‑efficient social rented homes have now been completed.

"Supported by £4.4 million in funding from the Scottish Government, the project is being delivered through a strong working partnership with Caledonia Housing Association and West Dunbartonshire Council.

"This major investment has transformed West Dumbartonshire and will deliver in total of 138 homes for social rent as part of a five‑year programme.

"The development is also a significant boost to affordable housing provision in the community for generations to come."

The project will enhance public spaces, creating a greener, safer and more connected neighbourhood.

Families have officially moved into the new homes (Image: Supplied)

Karis McKinlay, a lifelong resident of Bellsmyre who recently moved into one of the new homes, described the experience as life-changing.

She said: "Getting our new home is totally indescribable – one of the best feelings I’ve ever had.

"We’ve been waiting for so long and finally seeing what years of effort have led to is just incredible.

"The houses are amazing.

"It’s pure excitement and giddiness – like being a child again, opening a present on Christmas Day.

"Seeing how much this home is going to benefit my daughter and me means everything.

"It’s a beautiful home, and it’s going to give our family a much better life."

The regeneration plan will replace 264 ageing flats with new, energy-efficient homes in an improved environment.

Councillor Gurpreet Singh Johal, convener of housing and communities at West Dunbartonshire Council, said: "I am delighted to see the progress in this ambitious project to regenerate Bellsmyre.

"It is fantastic to hear from tenants on how their new homes and community are helping them build their lives here.

"Sustainable, affordable homes are in demand and, thanks to the council’s house-building programme, as well as developments in partnership with housing associations like Caledonia, we are delivering for residents."

Residents were handed over the keys to their new homes in Bellsmyre (Image: Supplied)

David Wylie, managing director of CCG (Scotland), said: "While we were on-site for phase one for just over a year, our involvement in the project dates back to 2022, so it’s a proud moment to see these new, highly energy-efficient homes now being occupied.

"I have no doubt the development will help strengthen the Bellsmyre community, and we look forward to returning in the spring to continue working alongside Caledonia and our partners as we begin construction on phase two."