Calton Village

Calton Village is a 123-unit affordable housing development in Glasgow, forming the first phase of a wider 254-unit masterplan. The scheme revitalises a long-vacant, contaminated brownfield site in the Calton area, a key regeneration zone supported by the Council's Calton Area Development Framework and the Calton-Barras Action Plan. The development comprises five flatted blocks of 113 units and 10 terraced townhouses, using a hybrid of steel, timber and traditional construction. Communal landscaped courtyards, rooftop gardens and a formalised pedestrian and cycle path strengthen connectivity between the City Centre and East End, supporting Glasgow City Council's 20-minute neighbourhood concept.

The site required extensive contamination remediation, complicated by an unexpected increase in scope. Railway proximity demanded robust noise mitigation and strict access control, while crane positioning and restricted access around the energy centre presented ongoing logistical challenges. Unexpected underground services required a complete redesign of drainage connections, and achieving fire safety compliance for the eight-storey steel frame block added further technical complexity. The installation of the district heating system required extensive coordination across infrastructure, crossover points and commissioning, including close engagement with Glasgow City Council Roads to avoid adopted highways.

Delivery was underpinned by close collaboration with Wheatley Group, Glasgow City Council, including City Design, the Contaminated Land Officer and Roads, and Network Rail. A localised procurement plan prioritised local labour and materials, and a bespoke jobs and training programme was developed for long-term unemployed residents and those with additional support needs. Educational engagement with local schools and community groups was maintained throughout.

Calton Village achieved a 15–40% reduction in carbon emissions through a combination of low and zero carbon technologies, enhanced building fabric, solar panels and a district heating network. The centralised energy centre uses a Combined Heat and Power system, eliminating the need for individual boilers and supplying heating, hot water and cold water to each home via Heat Interface Units. Rain gardens manage stormwater, reduce flood risk and enhance biodiversity. The result is average energy bills of just £276 per plot - a meaningful reduction in fuel costs for residents.

Investment in skills development through apprenticeships, work placements and college partnerships generated £12.8 million in social and economic value, with £95,325 contributed directly to community projects via the Wheatley Foundation to support tenants through ESOL, IT and employment initiatives. The project delivered 40 work placements, 13 new jobs, 6 new apprenticeships and supported 18 existing apprentices, with 4 completing their training. Over 500 school and college pupils benefited from educational visits, and 30 mentoring and educational support activities were conducted.