Lovell built 20 houses in Holytown, which were designed in partnership with North Lanarkshire Council in 2010, and 88-year-old Margaret Williamson is one of the very first residents.

Mrs Williamson said her home is key to staying connected to the community. “I’ve been here for 14 years since the house was built. It’s all on one level, which is just ideal at my age. I actually put in for a pensioner’s house, and when I found out I’d been offered one, I nearly collapsed! It’s spacious, filled with light, and right on the main street. I sit on my couch and see everyone go by, which makes me feel part of the neighbourhood. It’s perfect.”

Mrs Williamson’s home is one of many built by Lovell across Scotland. Each Lovell home, for social rent or private sale, is designed with energy efficiency as a priority, offering lower running costs and featuring modern, open-plan layouts offering spacious, manageable living spaces. Lovell has developments across Scotland including Glow Garren in Hamilton, Oakwood Edge in Mayfield and The Crossings in South Queensferry which were each chosen due to their vibrant communities and access to local amenities and transport options, supporting residents of all ages.

Ann Pickering, housing service manager, North Lanarkshire Council said: “We continue to roll out the delivery of new homes across North Lanarkshire and the Holytown development is an excellent example of our partnership with developers to build high-quality, energy-efficient housing that meets the needs of our communities. It’s great to hear first-hand from tenants of the positive impact new build homes have in changing lives, transforming local communities and making North Lanarkshire the place to live.”

Head of partnerships for Lovell in Scotland, Sarah Freel, said: “At Lovell, we have been committed to building homes for people at all stages of life for more than 50 years. We take pride in delivering high-quality homes across Scotland that cater to diverse needs. Through our ongoing projects and social value initiatives, we continue to invest in communities, creating homes that meet housing demand and foster a sense of belonging and wellbeing for years to come.

“It was a privilege to spend time with Mrs Williamson to celebrate Scottish Housing Day’s 2024 focus on Homes for Life.”