TWO of the Borders’ biggest social landlords have signed a £5million agreement to renovate a Hawick housing estate.
Scottish Borders Housing Association (SBHA) and Waverley Housing agreed to the legal transfer of empty properties at Stonefield.
Refurbishment work on existing blocks of flats is currently under way, while 11 empty blocks are to be demolished by autumn 2013 to make way for 44 new family-sized affordable homes.
The agreement between SBHA, Waverley Housing and Scottish Borders Council (SBC) was sealed this month.
Ray Licence, chairman of SBHA, said: “This marks the culmination of many years of hard work by SBHA and Waverley Housing, with significant assistance and support from Scottish Borders Council and the local community.
“We can now embark on providing high-quality modern homes, working closely with tenants and residents to provide a sustainable, vibrant community.”
Rita Stenhouse, chair of Waverley Housing, added: “We are delighted to be party to the regeneration of Stonefield estate and look forward to engaging with tenants and residents in our refurbishment programme, which will breathe new life into the area.”
SBC leader David Parker welcomed the deal.
He said: “This agreement will transform the Stonefield area by providing more affordable housing and bringing long-term empty houses back into use to meet identified local needs.”