TWENTY-ONE new homes at a social housing project in Ayr have been completed - with almost 120 more on the way.

A total of 160 new homes are being built for South Ayrshire Council on the site of the former Mainholm Academy.

Work began a year ago on the £36.6 million project - the local authority's largest house-building project in recent years.

The council says that 21 two-bedroom bungalows are now complete and some have already welcomed their first tenants.

The development will comprise a mix of house types and sizes - from one bedroom to six.

There will also be open spaces, a children’s play park, cycle paths and electric vehicle charging points.

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Councillor Martin Kilbride, the authority's buildings, housing and environment portfolio holder, said: “It’s fantastic news that the housing development is on track.

"Every effort has been made to ensure the homes are sustainable and energy efficient, so we’ve included solar panels and mechanical heat recovery units.

"With utility bills still extremely high, it’s important that we help reduce the heating bills for tenants.

“The feedback from those moving in has been really positive and we will continue to ensure they are supported as they get used to their new homes.”

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Derek Hart, an 'involved tenant' with housing services, said: “As a retired builder I was impressed with the quality and finish.

"There has been a lot of thought put into the construction with heating provision and air-conditioning type cool air systems, along with the sprinkler system.

“New tenants will be very pleased with how their house works and the cost-effective running.”

The completed housing development is scheduled to be handed over to the council during the spring of 2025.