Plans to deliver around 260 new homes across two key development sites in Orkney have taken a major step forward, with Places for People (PfP) Scotland appointing an architect to help bring the schemes to life.
The appointment is the latest milestone in PfP Scotland’s landmark partnership with Orkney Islands Council to deliver up to 500 affordable new homes.
Michael Gilmour Associates Ltd (MGA) has been appointed following a competitive tender process to develop feasibility and design plans for the former Papdale Halls site and Weyland.
Around 60 homes for affordable rent are proposed at the former Papdale Halls site, while plans for Weyland could deliver around 200 homes for affordable sale and rent. Together, the developments will provide a mix of housing to meet the needs of people living and working in Orkney.
The appointment marks the next stage in developing detailed plans for the sites, with MGA assessing planning requirements, site constraints, costs and deliverability to help shape the future developments.
In relation to the Former Papdale Halls site, PfP Scotland will also provide a £3,000 donation to support Orkney Islands Council with the relocation of the existing Willow Tree Nursery to its new location at the purpose-built facility within UHI Orkney. The funding will support with setup and furniture costs, helping to maintain valuable early years provision for local families.
Working alongside Orkney Islands Council and other local housing stakeholders, including the existing Housing Market Partnership on the islands, PfP Scotland is committed to ensuring its investment delivers benefits beyond new homes – supporting Communities, local jobs, skills and the wider economy.
Andrew Usher, Group Managing Director for Regeneration and Development at Places for People, said:
“We’re delighted to be taking the next step towards delivering around 260 new homes at Papdale Halls and Weyland, as part of our wider ambition to deliver up to 500 homes across Orkney.
“Appointing MGA means we can now develop our plans in more detail, ensuring the homes we deliver are well designed, sustainable and respond to the needs of Orkney’s unique Communities.
“This is an important step, but there is still work to do before we can start building. We look forward to continuing to work closely with Orkney Islands Council and our local partners to bring these plans forward and deliver the homes that Orkney needs.”
Councillor Gwenda Shearer, Chair of Orkney Islands Council’s Education, Communities and Housing Committee, said:
“This is another welcome milestone in our partnership with Places for People as we work together to address Orkney’s housing needs and create opportunities for our communities to thrive. The appointment of MGA moves these important developments a step closer to reality and demonstrates the positive progress being made towards delivering new, high-quality homes across the county.
“We also welcome Places for People’s donation towards the relocation of Willow Tree Nursery. This contribution will help support the nursery’s move to its new home at UHI Orkney and demonstrates a commitment not only to providing much-needed housing, but also to supporting the wider infrastructure and services that help our communities flourish.
“We look forward to continuing our strong and productive working relationship as plans for Papdale Halls and Weyland progress and move towards delivery.”
Stephen Pirie, Director at MGA Architecture commented:
“MGA Architecture are delighted to have been appointed by Places for People to support their housing programme in Orkney. It is a significant opportunity and one which aligns closely with our experience of delivering high-quality housing and new communities in locations where a strong understanding of place is fundamental to successful development.
“Our work with Places for People over many years has allowed us to develop a strong understanding of their aspirations for quality, sustainability and placemaking. We are proud to have contributed to award winning developments such as Chapelton of Elsick, Tornagrain and Longniddry, and we look forward to bringing that experience to Orkney.
“We look forward to working closely with Places for People, local stakeholders and communities to ensure that new homes respond positively to their surroundings, reflect the character of Orkney and contribute to the long-term success of the wider community of Kirkwall.”