STORY Homes’ development of executive homes in Biggar is predicted to bring £25 million of economic benefits to the region through the use of local employers and sourcing of local materials.

The nine-year build of the Pentland Reach development will bring 285 new homes to the town to meet rising demand in the area. The site, off Edinburgh Road, which was allocated for housing by the local authority, will see the first release of new homes for sale later in the year.

Production Manager Dexter Routledge, working with site manager Richard Newlands, is responsible for the successful running of the building site. He said: “Work is progressing well on site - the first foundations are underway, and the infrastructure for roads is being put in place.

“We are working with a number of sub-contractors to help us deliver this project and we will have further opportunities as the project progresses. Wherever possible we will look to recruit local sub-contractors, adding value to the local economy.” Work this week has focused on removing 17 trees, some of which were dead and posed a safety risk to traffic and pedestrians on Edinburgh Road.