Glasgow-based construction specialist CCG (Scotland) Ltd has been operational at Hutton Drive since early 2018 acting as main contractor where comprehensive tenement improvements and repairs have been undertaken to 33 properties on behalf of the Association.

The project began with 38 units but the end-product includes 33 units for rent following the amalgamation of unpopular bedsits.

The contract was supported with £4 million of investment including 50% funding provided by Glasgow City Council and the balance from the Association. This project is one of many to support the Association’s ambitious plans to improve the quality of all of its housing stock and the living environment which it offers tenants.

Internal improvements included the reconfiguration of some of the properties, installation of new central heating systems, kitchens, bathrooms, doors and windows. External, gable wall insulation was also installed to improve environmental performance in order to promote a reduction in carbon emissions and provide energy savings and the works also included stone repairs and roof works.

To commemorate the completion of the 60-week programme, local MSP and cabinet secretary for justice, Humza Yousaf, met representatives from the Association, CCG and community members for the official opening ceremony.

Humza Yousaf said: “I am delighted to be here to celebrate the completion of these tenement improvements on Hutton Drive. It is vitally important that we preserve traditional tenement stock in the Greater Govan area, but meeting current living standards must always be a priority.

“It’s great to see tenants moving in to their warmer, more energy efficient homes thanks to the work by Linthouse HA and CCG.”

Councillor Kenny McLean, Glasgow City Council housing convenor for neighbourhoods, housing and public realm, said: “The improvement and repair programme at these tenements in Linthouse has transformed these flats and we were delighted to fund half of the costs of this work. This is just one of many housing projects in the city driving up the quality of homes in the Glasgow, and the positive response of those living these homes shows how worthwhile the investment was.”

Nora Mbala Kutiki, a Hutton Drive resident of 13 years, said the changes are a “dream come true”.

Nora added: “I have lived here for a long time and the difference between then and now is amazing. There were no problems when I moved back after the works and the flat was in an immaculate condition.

“I only had a bath previously so to now have a shower too is a great help. I have also noticed a big difference in the heating – I don’t even need to have it on.

“Linthouse Association and CCG were always on hand throughout the process. They have been a great help.”

As well as undertaking the main construction, CCG also provided a series of community benefit initiatives that included one new job, two work placements and the donation of £1,100 to local SMEs and community projects.

Gail Sherriff, depute CEO of Linthouse Association, said: “The Association is delighted with the end-product achieved which has produced some top quality homes for our tenants, not just in terms of spaces standards, but energy efficiency through the introduction of much needed double glazed windows and highly efficient gas central heating systems.

“We very much hope that all our tenants will be happy within their newly refurbished homes. What was a very complicated contract has gone smoothly in terms of programme and costs. This has been achieved due to the excellent coordination offered by CCG’s experienced site staff and a first-class service from the architect and surveyor.

“We take this opportunity to thank all who contributed, including of course, the Association’s own staff. The Association is also delighted with the community benefits offered by CCG and for helping us to develop a good working relationship with the local high school that is to the benefit of the young people of Govan.”

CCG chairman and CEO, Alastair Wylie, said: “Our work with Linthouse HA over the last year has seen nearly 300 properties upgraded in the Greater Govan area with a third phase of renewals presently ongoing.

“With Hutton Drive, I commend the works undertaken by our Specialist Building Services team on what was a very challenging contract and the wider activity of the CCG Group in delivering a series of community benefit initiatives. CCG will always endeavour to provide a quality product for our clients whilst supporting the communities in which we operate.”