Housing reborn at Scotland’s birthplace

Work has started on a £5.9m project for Angus Council to build modern, energy efficient, high quality homes under the gaze of Arbroath Abbey.

The 40 new affordable Council homes for rent that comprise the Abbey Quarter development replace four blocks of empty council flats that became increasingly unpopular and difficult to let over recent years.

The development will transform the former Guthrie Hill/Smithy Croft area, which is situated close to the historic Abbey, as well as the town’s High Street and main shopping thoroughfares.

Joining local elected members and other invited guests today to formally mark the start of construction, Angus Council’s Communities convener Councillor Craig Fotheringham said: “Arbroath Abbey is historically and culturally important and the new development will improve this previously unpopular area to become a place where people can enjoy life and living.

“I am delighted to see the start of this two-year project, which is supported by the Scottish Government Affordable Housing Supply Programme. It will deliver modern low-rise affordable Council accommodation for single people, couples and families, within an environment that has open spaces, landscaped areas and dedicated parking.

“The Abbey Quarter development will complement and enhance the approach to the Abbey and improve accessibility to Arbroath’s High Street retail area.”

Vice convener, Councillor Lois Speed said: “I’m looking forward to seeing this exciting new Council development take shape. We are providing modern sustainable homes within a sustainable environment in a way that is sympathetic to the project’s historic surroundings. Housing that will improve people’s quality of life and create places that people are proud to call home.”

Stephen Lynas, Business Development Director of Hadden Group said: “We’re extremely pleased to be continuing our excellent working relationship with Angus Council which has developed over a number of housing projects and look forward to delivering much needed affordable homes in the shadow of Arbroath Abbey.”

For more details visit our project page