Scottish Housing Regeneration Transforms Former Sheltered Development into 16 Energy-Efficient Homes
A major housing regeneration project in rural Scotland has reached completion, transforming an ageing sheltered housing development into 16 modern, energy-efficient homes.
Trust Housing Association has completed the redevelopment of Manse Gardens in Strachur, Argyll and Bute, securing the future of an important source of affordable housing for the local community.
The project demonstrates how investment in existing housing stock can deliver sustainable homes while protecting vital accommodation in rural areas.
Transforming Underused Housing
Originally comprising 21 predominantly studio-sized bungalows and communal facilities, Manse Gardens had faced an uncertain future following the withdrawal of revenue funding in 2017.
Over time, the development became increasingly underoccupied, raising concerns about its long-term viability.
Rather than allowing the site to fall permanently out of use, Trust Housing Association worked alongside Argyll and Bute Council, the Scottish Government and project partners to redesign the development.
The result is 16 modern homes designed to better reflect local housing requirements.
The redevelopment was formally celebrated at an opening event in October, with both returning and new residents benefiting from the improvements.
Supporting Scotland’s Net Zero Ambitions
Energy efficiency has been a major priority throughout the regeneration programme.
The upgraded homes have been designed to achieve high environmental standards, helping reduce energy consumption and household running costs.
The project has received support through the Scottish Government’s Affordable Housing Supply Programme, which is receiving £926 million in investment this financial year.
More than £20 million of that funding has been allocated to Argyll and Bute.
A Model for Rural Housing Regeneration
The transformation has also attracted industry recognition, with Manse Gardens shortlisted for Excellence in Regeneration and Sustainability at the 2026 CIH Scotland Housing Awards.
For housing providers across Scotland, the development highlights the potential benefits of refurbishing existing properties rather than relying exclusively on new construction.
As rural communities face challenges surrounding housing availability, affordability and energy performance, regeneration projects such as Manse Gardens demonstrate how partnership working can preserve essential housing assets.
The scheme offers an example of how sustainable refurbishment can strengthen communities while supporting Scotland’s wider affordable housing ambitions.
