THE final homes at a development of more than 100 new houses in Helensburgh have been released for sale - more than three years since the project was given the green light.

The Alder Gate development of 107 new properties off Cardross Road is being completed by developer Bellway Homes.

Houses with three, four and five bedrooms are among the properties now on sale in the final phase of the development.

The project, to the east of Hermitage Academy, secured planning approval from Argyll and Bute Council in September 2020 - though its planning history goes back a good deal further than that.

Helensburgh Advertiser:

The site - known then as Sawmill Field - was approved for housing by Helensburgh and Lomond councillors exactly a decade ago, in January 2014.

At that point it was zoned for 145 new homes.

Another developer, CALA Homes, was behind original plans to build on the land, and secured outline approval for 145 houses in August 2016.

But in June 2019, with that outline approval about to expire, CALA pulled out, leaving the site's future in doubt.

Helensburgh Advertiser:

Within months, however, Bellway had been chosen as the preferred bidder for the 15-acre site, which was previously owned by former Helensburgh councillor Richard Trail and his three brothers.

Bellway unveiled their own outline proposals for up to 120 houses on the site later that year and - despite criticism from Helensburgh Community Council about the "run of the mill" house designs - secured planning approval from Argyll and Bute Council.

Work at the site began in 2021.

Pauline Coates, Bellway's sales director, said: “Helensburgh has grown in popularity as a residential location in recent years and enjoyed significant investment in its town centre.

“Last year it was named by the Daily Telegraph within the top 25 places to raise a family and was the only Scottish location to make the list.

Helensburgh Advertiser:

“It’s easy to see why as there’s lots of outdoor pursuits to enjoy as well as good schools and a varied independent High Street.

“Alder Gate is already a vibrant community, with lots of different property styles available.”

The Alder Gate development also features 36 affordable homes for social rent by Loretto Housing Association.

Find out more about Bellway's development at bellway.co.uk.