Bellsmyre Regeneration

The regeneration of Bellsmyre takes a sustainable approach to creating high-quality, affordable homes within a landscape where both the local community and surrounding wildlife can thrive. Comprising 204 new-build dwellings, the development replaces ageing housing stock that could not meet the Scottish Government’s forthcoming EESSH standards, establishing a new residential environment defined by green spaces, strong neighbourhood connections and thoughtful placemaking.

The first phase, now complete and fully occupied, delivered 66 homes at Muir Road, including a mix of semi-detached, terraced and four-in-a-block houses, alongside two flatted blocks. This phase replaced four high-rise towers with lower-density housing, shaped by extensive consultation with existing residents. A further 27 homes are currently under construction along Whiteford and Penniecroft Avenues, continuing the phased transformation of the area.

The development has been carefully masterplanned to foster a sense of community while respecting the surrounding context. An urban design strategy was embedded early in the process, prioritising neighbourliness, clearly defined private and communal spaces, high-quality landscaping and the removal of underused land with no amenity or ecological value. Improved physical and visual connections to the adjacent woodland Nature Conservation Site further support community wellbeing and biodiversity.

Architecturally, the homes reference traditional Scottish forms while embracing contemporary detailing through the use of steep gables, deep window reveals, and robust, low-maintenance materials in a muted red and grey palette. Designed to meet Building Regulations Silver Aspects 1 & 2, the homes follow a fabric-first approach informed by Passivhaus principles and PHPP modelling, ensuring excellent energy performance and long-term durability.

Community engagement has been central throughout, with Caledonia Housing Association facilitating a range of consultation events and focus groups to shape the design alongside local residents. A combination of in-person workshops, detailed physical models and digital consultation methods ensured that ideas could be clearly communicated, challenges explored and local priorities meaningfully embedded into the final proposals. The result is a collection of well-designed, sustainable homes that respond to the needs of residents and create a lasting, positive legacy for Bellsmyre.

Awards:

• Shortlisted:  The Planning Awards – Award for best Housing Scheme (fewer than 500 homes)
• Shortlisted:  The Planning Awards – Award for Regeneration

Team:

• Caledonia Housing Association – Client
• ECD Architects – Architecture
• CCG (Scotland) Ltd – Main Contractor
• NBM – Cost Consultant
• Curtins – Structural Engineer
• TGP – Landscape Architect
• SK/AD – Energy Consultants