Derelict landmark transformed into affordable homes in Larkhall

A DERELICT building in Larkhall, transformed into affordable housing by Rosewood Homes, has been formally handed over to Clyde Valley Housing Association.

Glengowan Gardens, a £4.5million development on the site of the old Glengowan Primary School, comprises 10, two-bedroom flats and six single-bedroom apartments in the converted school, and 18 new-build flats in the surrounding grounds. Fourteen of  these are two-bedroom flats, the remaining four are single-bedroom.

Thousands of children started their education in the C-listed former school building which dates from the early 1900s and was operational until 2015

Keys to the development, which was completed ahead of schedule, were handed over to Clyde Valley Housing Association’s clerk of works, Gerry Boylan by Rosewood Homes Construction Director Lou Lauder.

Lou, from Carluke, said: “We are delighted to have continued our partnership with Clyde Valley Housing Association in the project which will provide much-needed, high quality new homes in Larkhall.

“We have an excellent relationship with Clyde Valley Housing Association and we currently have another project with them in Carluke, at Lanark Road, which will be completed in the next few months.”

Gerry Boylan said: “It has been a pleasure to work with Rosewood on this project from start to finish. To see the old school, which sat derelict for several years, restored into modern flats is good for the whole community.

“The standard of finish within all the flats is very impressive which is credit to Rosewood’s management and all the tradesmen involved. There was nothing but positive feedback from our recent open days which showcased a few of the flats within the old school and it was interesting to hear stories from ex-pupils and teachers, who were overjoyed to see the building put to use.

“Clyde valley HA now look forward to moving in the new tenants who will be celebrating Christmas in their new homes thanks to the project finishing ahead of schedule. I look forward to working with Rosewood on more projects as they have set the bar high with this one.”

To restore the old school building, Rosewood Homes removed wood affected by wet and dry rot, re-slated the roof, removed the central atrium to form a courtyard and replaced the lintels supporting window and door openings.

In another major project in South Lanarkshire for Clyde Valley Housing Association, Rosewood Homes is nearing completion of phase three of a social housing development at the junction of Lanark Road and Shields Road, Carluke. The development will provide seven two-bedroom flats and one single-bedroom apartment.

Rosewood Homes has also started work on a luxury private development at Orchard Bank, Luggie Road, Carluke, of six, four-bedroom villas.

Lou said: “This is top-quality housing in an area which is continually growing, not least because of the excellent road and rail connections to both Glasgow and Edinburgh.”