The firms said the agreement marks a significant step forward in the creation of the brand-new community and will deliver homes more quickly, offering greater choice to home seekers.

With Springfield supplying the land, having driven the development through the design and planning process, Barratt will lead the provision of an ambitious infrastructure programme, with both supporting the delivery of much needed high-quality private and affordable housing.

The deal includes an initial sale of land to Barratt, with subsequent sales tied to infrastructure investment as key development milestones are reached. The infrastructure programme is set to include significant upgrades to Roman Road, electrical supply works and sewage works, providing the community with all the amenities it will need as it grows and welcomes residents.

Initial groundworks are expected to commence in late 2024, creating over 200 new jobs, apprenticeship roles and opportunities for the local supply chain.

Durieshill, which spans nearly 600 acres, has already secured planning approval for over 3,000 private and affordable homes. It is one of the largest detailed planning applications for housing and community infrastructure to be approved in Scotland to date, with a Gross Development Value of approximately £776 million.

Springfield and Barratt said they are well placed to ensure Durieshill has everything a self-sustaining community needs to flourish, including essential amenities such as new schools, local shops and business and commercial opportunities.

The development will incorporate extensive green spaces, including woodland, community landscaping, allotments and pocket parks. The entire travel network at Durieshill prioritises sustainable travel and promotes health and well-being.

Innes Smith, CEO of Springfield Properties, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Barratt on this exciting project at Durieshill. Our shared values and goals in constructing quality homes and fostering sustainable communities, combined with Barratt’s five-star reputation, will offer customers increased choice and accelerate delivery in this premier development.

“Durieshill is more than just housing – it’s a place where people will live and work. The development of the village will inject significant investment into the local economy, making a huge contribution to the area with employment and apprenticeship opportunities in the hundreds.

“This village has been a vision of Stirling Council for over 20 years. We have worked closely with them to design a place that meets the wider requirements of the city and thank those who have helped drive this project – especially their Interim Chief Executive and Head of Service with responsibilities for Infrastructure and Environment, Brian Roberts and Drew Leslie. We are excited to welcome Barratt to the team so, together, we can make this vision a reality.”

Douglas McLeod, regional managing director for Barratt Developments Scotland, added: “New homes, whether they be affordable, for first time buyers, or for experienced buyers, are in huge demand across Scotland, so we are very excited to be a partner in the development of this transformational new community serving the Central Belt.

“The provision of quality homes in this underserved area will not only offer much needed choice to local home seekers, it will support local employment and create demand for new amenities and services too. This is why we are investing so significantly in crucial infrastructure to serve the area, as well as making provisions for schools, shops and community spaces.”