Christmas delivery: Midlothian’s Most Ambitious Energy-Efficient Housing Development
A New Chapter on a Historic Site
Just in time for Christmas, Ogilvie Construction has started its handover of Midlothian Council’s landmark £25.038 million Passivhaus development, with the developer delivering 90 new affordable homes built on the site of the former Newbattle High School in Easthouses.
Great Gift
Councillor Stuart McKenzie, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “These homes are a wonderful gift to our communities. They’re warm, spacious, many with generous gardens, and designed to the highest energy-efficient standard, with comfort and sustainability in mind.
Warm welcome
“And while there may be no chimneys – thanks to the homes’ ability to retain solar heat – for future Christmases, Santa’s sleigh will have no trouble navigating the wide boulevards and beautifully landscaped surroundings.”
A Diverse and Inclusive Housing Mix
The development includes a mix of flats, houses, and bungalows, catering to a range of needs and lifestyles, including homes specially adapted for people with a disability. Built to rigorous Passivhaus standards, they are designed to dramatically reduce energy consumption and heating costs.
Councillor McKenzie said: “With so many families needing housing in Newtongrange, Easthouses and Mayfield, it is terrific to see this high-quality development complete. But we won’t stop here. The search for tomorrow’s homes begins today and we’re always planning on delivering for the future.”
Tackling Fuel Poverty and Supporting Net Zero Goals
He added: “These homes are a major step forward in tackling fuel poverty. Tenants will benefit from significantly lower heating bills, while the development supports our wider ambitions to reach net zero.”
Serving Local People with Pride
Grier Edmead, Operations Director at Ogilvie Construction, said: “We’re proud to have delivered this transformative project in partnership with Midlothian Council. These homes not only meet the highest standards of energy efficiency, but they’re also comfortable and built to last, creating a place where people can truly feel part of their community.”
Photo caption
In the picture from left to right are Councillor Stuart McKenzie, Midlothian Council’s Capital Projects Lead Officer Barry Stuart, and Ogilvie Construction Project Manager Bernard McLaughlan
Note
The funding includes Scottish Government grant funding of £9.111m from the Affordable Housing Supply Programme.
Melville Housing and McTaggart Construction will be commencing the construction of 28 homes in early 2026 for Mid-Market Rent use which will complete the redevelopment of the grounds of the former Newbattle High School.