Community / Initial work on large Lerwick housing development could start in spring
THERE are hopes that workers could be on site of the proposed new large housing development at Staney Hill in Lerwick in April or May.
A tender has now been issued by Hjaltland Housing Association for preparatory work including site clearance, rock excavation and groundwork.
The 30-month contract, valued at £7.5 million excluding VAT, also includes landscaping, providing access roads, pavements, water and power to enable the construction of the new housing.
It will also focus on the installation of a main spine road and a green corridor.
It is envisaged the rock on site will be excavated by low level blasting to minimise the impact on surrounding buildings.
Hjaltland Housing Association chief executive Bryan Leask said the tender going out was “great news”, with a hope to be on site in the spring.
A planning application for the first phase of development, which would include over 120 homes, was submitted to Shetland Islands Council last year.
The overall development could see up to 350 affordable homes built in phases over 10 to 15 years.
Most of the new homes will be rental accommodation but the site will also provide opportunities for those who wish to move into low cost home ownership via shared ownership/shared equity housing and rent-to-buy properties.
Phase one, which is expected to be completed by the summer of 2025, is being overseen by architects PJP and engineer Mott MacDonald.
With the support of the Scottish Government Hjaltland acquired the site on the north side of Staney Hill in 2015.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 630 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.