Robertson hands over 44 affordable extra care homes in Fife

The site, which had remained vacant since the former care home and other buildings were demolished in 2018, has now been transformed into 20 amenity homes and a 24-flat residential extra care facility. 

Designed for people aged 55 and over with a range of extra care needs, the development provides high-quality, affordable and energy-efficient homes alongside enhanced streets, landscaping, tree planting and secure parking. 

The 24-flat extra care facility, which will be operated by Fife Council, comprises 10 one-bedroom amenity flats, 10 two-bedroom wheelchair-accessible flats and four two-bedroom amenity flats. Six two-bedroom amenity, four two-bedroom wheelchair-accessible, two three-bedroom amenity and eight one-bedroom amenity bungalows complete the development.

All homes have been designed to meet the Scottish Government’s Housing for Varying Needs standards. The bungalows feature wet-floor showers, while the wheelchair-accessible properties also include specially designed kitchens with adjustable worktops.

The development is targeting Silver Standard aspects 1 and 2 under the Scottish Government’s Building Standards through high-performance insulation, energy-efficient windows and modern heating systems with A-rated boilers. Solar photovoltaic panels will help the homes achieve an EPC rating of B.

As part of its commitment to the communities where it works, Robertson generated lasting social and economic benefits. This included prioritising SME spend, use of local supply chain, and the delivery of 361 apprenticeship weeks.

Strong links were maintained with Fife College, with six CSCS cards funded for students and 11 weeks of work experience delivered. Taster days and the Robertson Ideal Candidate Programme were carried out at Lochgelly High School, providing pupils with opportunities to gain SCQF qualifications and helping young people prepare for employment. 

The Lochgelly development is the seventh and final project in Fife Council’s latest phase of the Affordable Housing Programme that Robertson has delivered.

Councillor Judy Hamilton, Fife Council's Spokesperson for Housing and Building Services, said: "It's fantastic to see these new properties completed and ready to welcome residents.

"This development is about much more than bricks and mortar. We're creating a place where people can live independently, safely and comfortably, while having access to the support they need as they get older.

"We've taken a site that stood empty for several years and transformed it into high-quality, affordable housing that will make a real difference to people's lives.

“In particular, the extra care facility will help more people remain part of their local community while receiving the care and support they need.

“I'm sure tenants will be delighted with their new houses and the attractive environment that's been created around them."

Robertson Construction Eastern carried out the operational delivery of the development. Commercial Director Susan Wilson said: “As an affordable housing delivery partner for Fife Council, the completion of these 44 properties at Lochgelly mean we have delivered 320 homes in the latest phase of its Affordable Housing Programme. 

“These developments are providing quality, affordable and energy-efficient homes for the residents of Fife Council and helping them to meet their commitment to transform vacant sites, generate real benefits, and create thriving communities.”

Robertson Timber Engineering also supported the construction of the homes with high-quality panels and components. Involved at every stage of the process, from design through to production and installation, its use of offsite production delivered sustainability benefits, reduced site disruption and minimised waste.