With Hillcrest recognised for championing young people and promoting opportunities for them, the turf cutting was carried out by one of the company’s youngest board members, Ethan Jones.

Mr Jones was joined by two of Hillcrest’s young staff members – development project officer Keith Harvey who is overseeing the project, and development graduate Trainee Lyle Gray.

The development site is nestled just off Newcraighall Road, between Glennie Road and the Railway line, and will deliver a range of property types, including two, three and four-bedroom houses along with two-up-two-down cottage flats and apartment blocks.

The homes are set to be delivered over five phases, with the final tranche of homes anticipated to be completed around early 2029.

The development site occupies the grounds of a former coal mine, which had begun to wind down in the 1960s, and fully ceased operations by 1980.

The land had lain vacant ever since, and as well as the new homes, a network of footpaths and thoroughfares will open the area up again for the first time in almost two centuries.

Encouraging young people to be involved and take the lead in major projects is something Hillcrest has been focusing on as part of its commitment to developing the next generation of leaders. As well as securing Investor in Young People Silver award over the past few years, other initiatives include a broad-ranging apprenticeship programme, Young People’s Voice group and a dedicated Young Workforce Development Officer.

Ethan Jones, Hillcrest Homes governing body member, said: “This is an exciting project that will deliver a significant number of homes for affordable rent at a time when the country is experiencing an affordable housing crisis.

“These properties will be a fantastic boost to Edinburgh and the Lothians’ housing provision, while supporting the Scottish Government in their pledge to deliver more affordable homes.”

Angela Linton, Hillcrest chief executive, added: “Hillcrest has always been committed to not just delivering good quality affordable properties, but homes that tenants can feel comfortable and thrive in.

“We’re delighted to be working towards completing such a fantastic number of homes, which will be suited to a variety of household needs.”

Mark Beaton, Cullross director, said: “We’re delighted to be undertaking another large project with Hillcrest, and we look forward to delivering another development of good quality and energy-efficient homes for those in housing need.

“Edinburgh is in the midst of a housing crisis: affordable housing is a necessary and key component to alleviating serious challenges facing many people across the capital and Cullross are delighted to playing their part in addressing this.”