WORK has begun on a development of 43 new Council houses at Woodbine, Cardenden.

The project is part of the Council’s wider affordable housing programme to increase the number of affordable homes for rent across Fife.

This latest development, will be a mix of properties with a high proportion of specific needs houses including, seven bungalows, 24 general needs houses and 12 cottage flats.

Councillor Judy Hamilton, convener of the Community and Housing Services Committee, cut the first sod on site to mark the occasion. She said: “I’m pleased to be celebrating that work is now underway here at Woodbine.

"The mix of house types was agreed following consultation to identify local housing requirements and will be a great development to add to the Council’s housing stock. The houses are being built for the Council by local developer NAStech Construction.”

Councillor Linda Erskine, chair of the Cowdenbeath Area Committee added: “The Woodbine development will contribute much needed affordable housing for the Cowdenbeath area and I look forward to seeing tenants settling into their new neighbourhood next year and enjoying the local community.”

This development is one of a number that are in the pipeline to meet the council’s target to deliver 3,500 new affordable homes by 2022.

Cllr Hamilton concluded: “"Our affordable housing programme works in partnership with Fife Housing Association Alliance, private developers and together we are making real progress towards our 3500 commitment. Working together, we are building fit for purpose modern houses that will benefit tenants for many years to come.”

Pictured are, back row - Councillor Linda Erskine, Neil Sellars (Nastech), Derek McAndrew (Nastech), Alan Ogilvie (Nastech) , Lesley Brown (Nastech) and housing chief John Mills . Front - Councillor Judy Hamilton.