Launch of Courtyard Development

Irvine Housing Association has launched its latest new housing development in Irvine. The flats, part of The Courtyard development built by housing developer Lovell on Ballot Road, were formally opened by Councillor Tom Barr, North Ayrshire Council and Roger Popplewell, Head of Region (West), of the Scottish Government’s Housing Investment Division. The opening ceremony was held on Friday 26 March, when they unveiled a bird bath and plaque to commemorate the event. Guests moved on to the Association’s Head Office for a buffet lunch and speeches.

The event was attended by Irvine Housing Association’s Chairman, Tommy Farrell, Association Chief Executive Paul Hillard, Alan Taylor, Regional Director of Lovell, Councillor Ian Clarkson, representatives from North Ayrshire Council, business contacts and contractors who were involved in the project, Irvine Housing Association’s Board Members and staff, together with officials from various organisations including the Scottish Government’s Housing and Regeneration Directorate, other local housing associations, and the new residents of The Courtyard.

The Association secured grant funding from the Scottish Government for the purchase of the 14 apartments. The flats contribute to the Scottish Government’s aim of delivering good-quality, sustainable and affordable housing and the fact that they are mixed tenure will lead to a more cohesive community, where everyone enjoys the same high standards.  The properties also have an energy efficiency rating of B which helps to address the problem of fuel poverty. Housing and Communities Minister Alex Neil said, “The Scottish Government is pleased to have provided £913,000 in grant to support Irvine Housing Association in acquiring these much needed homes for rent.  This has been a record year for Government investment in affordable housing to meet housing needs across Scotland.”

Councillor Tom Barr provided a history of the site and commended the quality of the development, “The Courtyard is an asset to Irvine and is a prime example of good partnership working which achieves good value for money.”

The 14 2 bed flats are part of a private development which will include a further 20 flats and 14 townhouses for sale. Lovell Regional Director Alan Taylor said, “Our project team has worked closely with Irvine Housing Association and the local community to create these new affordable apartments. The team’s community-focused approach at The Courtyard was recognised by the Considerate Constructors Award presented to Lovell last year, highlighting their commitment to working with consideration for local residents and the environment.”

Official guests had an opportunity to look around one of the flats with the kind permission of new residents, Laura MacAskill and Graeme Houston.  Laura and Graeme have been enjoying their new flat for the past 4 months,   ”We are delighted with our flat and the help that the Association have given us throughout the entire allocation process.  It has been an excellent opportunity to get a new-build flat, especially so close to the town centre.”

Association Chairman, Tommy Farrell speaking at the event said, “The Association is delighted with these new properties.  We have an excellent working relationship with Lovell having previously completed two new build developments at Sanderson Avenue in Irvine and Springside. The positive response that has been received from new tenants like Laura and Graeme is excellent. This is a first-class development and a credit to all those involved.”

Brian Donohoe MP said, “Having driven by the site throughout the development process, it is a pleasure to be involved in the opening event. This development is a valuable boost to affordable housing provision in the town centre – a priority for my constituents. I welcome the important contribution that the Association makes to increase the number of high quality, affordable homes for rent within North Ayrshire.”

Irene Oldfather said, “The Courtyard is an innovative mixed tenure project providing a very high quality product.  Improving the range of affordable housing in the constituency has long been a priority of mine, and I was delighted to hear that local young couples will be provided with that important first step on the housing ladder. Irvine Housing Association is to be congratulated on its partnership approach and having the foresight to be involved in this new venture.”