Housing group withdraws from Langholm homes project

A not-for-profit housing group says it will no longer lead a large-scale project to deliver "desperately needed" new homes in Langholm.

The proposed development includes 35 properties for older people and 70 other homes.

Loreburn Housing Group said it knew its decision would be "disappointing news" for some people in Langholm, adding that it would be focusing on smaller, community-led projects.

Local councillor Denis Male said it was a "dire situation" for the area.

Loreburn said it would work closely with any potential purchasers of the Langholm site to ensure the needs of the community were met.

Chief executive Kirsteen McGinn said it made its decision following a "thorough review" of its priorities and long-term objectives.

She said: "Our refreshed strategy will ensure we remain financially resilient and focused on delivering high-quality and sustainable new homes that meet genuine local need.

"By focusing on smaller, more sustainable developments, we can continue to deliver quality homes and support our tenants and communities where it's needed most."

Ms McGinn added: "We remain fully committed to Langholm and to Dumfries and Galloway as a whole.

"While we won't be leading this particular development, we are keen to continue supporting local ambitions - whether that's through partnership working, advice, or helping community-led housing projects get off the ground."

Mr Male said new homes were needed in the area.

"The most important part of it was the care of the elderly - 35 sheltered and extra sheltered houses," he said.

Mr Male said the properties would have allowed people to live close to their families.

He added: "The 70 other general housing is desperately needed for our young people.

"It's really a very dire situation for Langholm."