JR Group begins work on second Livingston site

THE JR Group has started work on the site of its second major project in Livingston.The firm is undertaking its first contract on behalf of Ark Housing Association following a competitive tender process. 20 affordable and sustainable homes will be delivered at Crusader Rise.As well as constructing the homes – which feature a mix of one, two and three-bedroom properties including six ground floor apartments designed to wheelchair standards – The JR Group also designed the homes in partnership with QB Wood Architects and Fairhurst Consulting Engineers.The JR Group said the development is being regarded as one of the most energy-efficient housing developments in Scotland, boasting a range of innovations to cut emissions and heating bills including air source heating systems and electric car charging facilities.Work on the homes is expected to complete in spring 2023.Gary McGregor, MD of The JR Group, said, “It’s great to see work starting on our first ever project with Ark Housing Association – we’re thrilled to have been selected to bring to life these much-needed affordable and sustainable homes following the competitive tender process.“We already have experience in the local area and a proven track record, having successfully delivered a collection of socially-rented properties on the former St Paul’s Church in Ladywell just last year. We’re looking forward to completing another fantastic project in Livingston and can’t wait to see it come to fruition over the coming year.”Ark’s chief executive Bobby Duffy added, “With Crusader Rise, our number one priority was to provide the highest possible quality of modern, affordable homes for social rental, while also setting new standards for energy efficiency and environmental impact. We have also built in innovative solutions to enable tenants with disabilities to live independently and we designed some of our properties to be suitable for those tenants who may require higher levels of care and support.”