The announcement marks collaboration on a 17-unit, client design-led, affordable housing development, procured through Scotland Excel, that not only introduces new homes but also seeks to strengthen the local community.

Knowetop, situated on 15.5 acres in Castlehill, Dumbarton, serves as a hub for horticulture and wildlife initiatives that support the community’s wellbeing. Through a range of activities such as volunteering opportunities, work placements, community events, and community food growing, the farm plays a vital role in engaging and supporting the local residents.

As part of their commitment to community benefits at Willox Park, McTaggart Construction, with the generous support of groundworks subcontractor Tough Construction, undertook a week-long programme of essential civil engineering works. This collaborative effort has successfully laid the groundwork for creating community assets such as a community fruit orchard, allotments for residents, and a designated space for educational and social workshops. 

Feedback from staff and volunteers involved in the project has been overwhelmingly positive. The groundwork carried out by McTaggart and Tough Construction is expected to significantly benefit hundreds of people annually through enhanced educational opportunities and activities promoting mental and physical wellbeing.

Gary Hassan, commercial director at Tough Construction, commented: “Tough Construction is committed to supporting the communities in which we work. This was a fantastic partnership project to support the Willox Park community benefits. We are pleased to have carried out this work and are confident it will benefit countless residents.”

Claire Travis, project coordinator at Knowetop, expressed gratitude to McTaggart and Tough Construction for their generous support, emphasising the role it will play in further developing the project and creating new educational and social spaces.

She said: “The partnership between McTaggart Construction, West Dunbartonshire Council, and Tough Construction underlines a strong commitment to not only delivering much-needed affordable housing but also investing in the social and environmental wellbeing of the community. The establishment of the orchard, allotments, and social space is expected to provide lasting benefits to residents of Willox Park and the surrounding area.”