LOW-income families in East Renfrewshire are being given the chance to afford their own home, thanks to a new housing initiative.

Construction giant Taylor Wimpey has joined forces with Barrhead Housing Association to build 12 quality houses for rent.

The two and three-bedroom properties in Neilston Road, Neilston, are now almost completed and some families have already moved in.

The scheme is part of a Scottish Government-funded project to build 50,000 new affordable homes across the country by 2021 in a bid to solve the current acute housing shortage.

David McCready, chair of Barrhead Housing Association, said: “These new, energy-efficient homes for social rent are a welcome boost to the local area and just right for our tenants.

“In these very difficult times, with health and financial uncertainties and rising homelessness in our society, providing good-quality affordable homes in the local area couldn’t have come at a better time.

“We believe that everyone has the right to live in a secure, good-quality, well-maintained home within communities that are safe, supported and inclusive.”

East Renfrewshire Council leader Tony Buchanan has also welcomed the project.

He told the Barrhead News: “Housing continues to be in high demand in East Renfrewshire and these affordable homes will make a big difference to those in need.

“Providing affordable, high-quality housing is a key priority for the council and I look forward to seeing these tenants and families make Neilston their home.”

Caroline Proctor, of Taylor Wimpey West Scotland, said the company hoped to be involved in supplying more affordable homes in East Renfrewshire when land becomes available.

She added: “It’s a real privilege to hand over 12 completed homes to Barrhead Housing Association and see the new tenants bringing this street to life.”

Councillor Danny Devlin, East Renfrewshire’s housing and maintenance convener, said: “This area continues to be an extremely popular place to live, so it is especially pleasing to see affordable homes constructed here.”