AROUND 1,000 affordable homes have been earmarked for South Ayrshire to help tackle high demanded areas.

South Ayrshire Council made the announcement with hope to have the new social houses built over the next five years, costing around £68.5 million.

The ambitious building programme will be completed between 2017 to 2023 throughout South Ayrshire, particularly in the popular areas of Ayr, Troon and Prestwick.

The council and other registered social landlords will continue to work closely with communities and the Health and Social Care Partnership to ensure affordable housing meets the needs of older people as well as those with learning disabilities, mental health issues and people leaving the care sector.

Cllr Philip Saxton, housing and customer services portfolio holder said: “Our affordable housing build programme has been extremely successful with our largest development at Lochside a shining example.

“This is not just about bricks and mortar - it’s about building communities and ensuring tenants have bright and spacious homes which can be adapted to their needs.

“We will be working closely with our partners to bring new affordable housing to the priority towns of Ayr, Troon and Prestwick, however new housing is also proposed for Girvan and Maybole and I am keen to see more affordable accommodation in rural areas too.

“This is a challenging target that we have set ourselves and our partners however, I am confident that 1,000 additional affordable homes can be delivered by 2023.”