HOMES are again being proposed for a site in Greenock’s East End a year after a housing association abandoned the partially-built project over spiralling costs.
Oak Tree Housing Association announced in December 2024 that it would not be going ahead with 15 affordable homes at Strone Farm, Glenbrae Road, after encountered significant challenges since construction began in 2019.
Problems included the liquidation of its contractor in 2022 and rising material and construction costs, made worse by the aftermath of the covid pandemic. Oak Tree estimated to complete the project would cost it a total of £6million — more than £400,000 per house.
But a new report by Inverclyde Council officials reveals that the site will now being progressed by Link Group.
The report states: “The site currently contains partially built, structurally unsound units which require full demolition, removal of foundations, and clearance of a spoil heap before redevelopment can commence. These enabling works will be undertaken by Oak Tree HA, with land transfer to Link expected thereafter.
“Link has not incurred spend to date, although previous grant investment of £1.25million under Oak Tree HA is being repaid and the acquisition element (circa £200,000) will transfer across.
“The development will deliver 15 new homes for social rent, including a seven-person unit to address demand for larger family housing. Homes will be allocated in line with local housing policy, with Larkfield Housing Association managing the stock on Link’s behalf.”
