SCOTTISH housebuilder Lochay Homes has commenced groundworks on its latest residential development in Midlothian.
The project, set within 6.39 acres of the former Wellington School site near Penicuik, has planning consent for 46 two to four-bedroom bungalows and is expected to see its first completions in summer 2026.
The single-storey homes are being planned with modern energy-saving features and will be designed to significantly reduce household running costs.
With bungalows representing just 1% of current UK housing stock – down sharply from 11% of new home registrations in 1990, and 38% of over 55s preferring a bungalow for their next move – the development is hoped to attract strong interest, particularly amongst downsizers.
The new homes are also marketed as a practical choice for families, close to good schools and offering a reasonably simple commute into Edinburgh.
Now in its 15th year, Lochay Homes has built more than 500 homes across Scotland.
Jamie Thomson, commercial director at Lochay Homes, commented: “It’s fantastic to see work starting on this exciting development in such a desirable location.
“It is our hope that these stylish new homes will not only deliver genuinely lower energy bills but also provide the flexibility and accessibility buyers are looking for – whether downsizers or growing families.
“We have only just started on groundworks and have already had enquiries, so we do expect this to be a popular development.”
Lochay Homes is planning to incorporate heat pumps, extensive solar panelling, home batteries systems, high levels of insulation and EV charging into the homes themselves.
The developer says it will use local materials wherever possible, with timber-frame construction and natural stone detailing to reflect the local vernacular.
Surrounded by woodland, the development will also include extensive new planting, with more than 1,000 additional trees to be introduced, alongside orchard areas with apple and plum trees, native hedgerows, shrubs and woodland mix.
Work on the access to the site has now begun, with full construction due to start in the new year following detailed planning approval for updated house types.
Finalised designs and details on pricing are expected to be confirmed in early 2026.
