LOCAL social landlord Eildon Housing have revealed that they received more than 3,300 bids for new affordable houses in Newtown St Boswells.

The Selkirk-based provider has just completed the 53-property development on the edge of the village at Sergeants Park.

But for every home that became available for rent, there were over 60 applicants.

Eildon chief executive Nile Istephan believes that recently being granted permission for a second phase of housing in Newtown, as well as a development at Huddersfield Street in Galashiels, will help ease the demand.

He told us: "Housing need is a major issue across towns and villages in the Borders.

"People at all stages in life – from young people and families, to older people with care requirements – they’re all looking for affordable housing.

"The Borders needs modern, high-quality affordable housing and the Sergeants Park development illustrates how Eildon is working closely with local communities, Borders Council - as part of their current Strategic Housing Investment Plan - and the Scottish Government to address this most fundamental of social and economic priorities.”

Of the 53 properties which have just been rented out at Sergeants Park, 85 percent went to local people.

Four of the properties were built to accommodate special care needs.

Work is now about to commence on the second phase of the development.

As with the initial construction, Hart Builders will deliver the 63 properties.

Managing director Andy Mallice told us: “We look forward to delivering the next phase of the Sergeants Park affordable housing development on behalf of Eildon Housing Association.

"These high-quality homes will be built to Silver Standard energy efficiency levels, providing residents with warmer homes that have fewer carbon emissions and are cheaper to run.

"Throughout this build, we will provide a wide range of benefits for the local community - including employment opportunities, schools’ initiatives and site based work experience.”