A 64-HOUSE development on the site of a former high school in the Borders has been unveiled.

Eildon Housing Association showcased the Earlston project just days after the council declared a housing emergency in the region.

The firm’s chief executive, Nile Istephan, said that there had been up to 84 bids per home at the development.

“This new development is another step towards addressing the acute housing need in the Scottish Borders, with the local authority recently announcing a housing emergency for our region,” he said. “For this development, we received up to 84 bids per home, highlighting the huge demand.” 

Two mosaics were created by local artist Joy Parker, with the help of Earlston Primary School children, as part of the project.

(Image: Eildon Housing)

Ms Parker said: “It was a delight working with the children of Earlston Primary School – everyone played a part and placed their own mosaic tiles into the design, based on pictures drawn by the children of the local fable ‘Thomas the Rhymer of Earlston’. 

“In years to come, it is nice to think that these children will be able to visit this site and remember the part they played in this fantastic art project.”

Eildon said the total cost of the project was £12.8 million, including around £7 million from the Scottish Government and £200,000 from Scottish Borders Council.