39 new affordable homes will be coming to Mayfield, Midlothian, next year thanks to funding from the Scottish Government and a partnership between Melville and house builder Lovell.

Work is underway at the new development, known as Oakwood Edge, with the first Melville homes expected to be handed over next spring. 

The total project cost for Melville's 39 homes is £7.098m with £3.943m coming from Scottish Government funding.

All properties will have Solar PV, while electric car charging points will be located throughout the overall development. Four units will receive additional features such as air source heating to help achieve Net Zero.

“It was my pleasure to take part in the sod cutting for Oakwood Edge which marks the continuation of a productive relationship between Melville and Lovell that began more than 15 years ago," said Donna Bogdanovic, Chair of Melville Housing Association.

“This exciting opportunity, made possible thanks to Scottish Government funding and support from Midlothian Council, will allow us to help some of those on Midlothian’s huge social housing waiting list who are desperately waiting for a quality affordable home.

“On behalf of everyone at Melville Housing Association, I would like to say just how much we’re looking forward to following the progress of this exciting project and, when the time comes, welcoming tenants to the Oakwood Edge development.”

A play park and an art installation will also form part of the new development, in line with Lovell’s commitment to providing community benefits and social value where it builds.

Lovell Partnership Manager, Sarah Freel, said:

“Oakwood Edge is an incredibly exciting development for Lovell and our partners, so it was wonderful to see the ceremonial first shovel going into the ground on it.

“As a partnership housebuilder, we’re delighted to be working with Melville Housing Association to deliver this development. Oakwood Edge is an example of how partnership working can benefit communities and the local economy, whilst creating numerous jobs and training opportunities.

“I’d like to express our gratitude to everyone involved in this sod cutting ceremony and thank them for their continued dedication to making Oakwood Edge a great place for families to live.”