A new firm resumes a Livingston housing project for young people after the previous contractor went bust, ensuring minimal delays.
The housing head said delays would be minimal. Completion was originally expected in late summer. Ogilvie Construction Ltd. will finish the project, working with Hub South East, which partners with the council.
Construction stopped because Connect Modular failed; that Ayrshire company collapsed earlier this year. The council confirmed work restarts soon and a councillor asked about the Almondvale Crescent site.
During a budget meeting, Pauline Orr wanted updates on the stalled housing project. Orr inquired about finding a new contractor, potential project delays, and costs involved.
Julie Whitelaw said the delay would be minimal and cause no added financial cost. She added the council and Hub South East worked to quickly find Ogilvie to take on the work.
Whitelaw stated the only cost is the delayed housing availability, but they will report back soon. She was pleased that the delay would only be months, and George Paul was happy about the new contractor.
As the Executive Councillor for Housing Services, Paul said all parties want the project to continue, enhancing social housing in Livingston and supporting homeless young people.
Council officers will work with Hub South East. Greig Jamieson said their program has flexibility, helping find solutions after the firm failed and allowing them to appoint a new contractor in weeks.
Jamieson highlighted Ogilvie Construction’s experience. Grier Edmead said they’ll work with the council, adding their team has a proven track record of delivering quality affordable housing across Scotland.
Plans are for 28 one-bedroom flats, with sixteen capable of becoming mainstream housing. The plans also provide office space for ten staff and overnight accommodation.
The project includes 20 affordable housing units, including two and three-bedroom houses and flats. Stuart Sommerville reported this.