Following competitive tender, Paisley-based construction firm The JR Group has been appointed by the Association as design and build contractor to deliver this exciting new project on the edge of Tollcross Park.

The former school closed in 2004 and has lain derelict after being subject to a fire in 2012. The site was purchased by the Association in 2018 and the new design and build contract with The JR Group is set to breathe new life into the area with the construction of 44 social rented homes, featuring a mix of 19 flats, 17 houses and 8 cottage flats.

Construction of the energy efficient homes is due to commence this summer, with properties designed to achieve Glasgow City Council’s Gold Hybrid standard. Funding for the project has been secured through Glasgow City Council’s Affordable Housing Supply Programme and from the Association’s own loan finance via Royal Bank of Scotland.

The Association and The JR Group are working closely with a range of partners, including architect Anderson Bell & Christie, to finalise the detailed proposals for this exciting project.

The Association is thrilled to be progressing the St Mark’s site following a difficult year for new build construction.

Lesley Scoffield, chair of Shettleston Housing Association, said: “The Association is delighted to be able to deliver 44 new, social rented homes on this prominent site. St Mark’s has had a few false starts and we’re now really looking forward to transforming this area into much needed, larger family homes that, we hope, will complement the established neighbourhood in this part of Shettleston.”

Andrew Dallas, project director for The JR Group, said he’s delighted to be working with the Association to bring forward plans to deliver new, social housing in Shettleston.

Andrew said: “We’re over the moon to have won the construction contract for this exciting project. This is the first time we have worked with Shettleston Housing Association and we’re delighted to be striking up a working relationship with them.

“The former St Marks Primary School is a site that many are keen to see redeveloped and brought back to life, so we’re confident that this social housing development will be a welcome boost to this already popular area. We’re looking forward to getting started with works this summer.”