ONE hundred affordable homes for medics, police and care workers could be built as part of a new low-carbon village.
Developers have revealed plans to sell the residences to key workers as part of DunBear Park, a mix of retail, drive-through, housing, office and other units which could be created in East Lothian.
Named after the 18ft Andy Scott sculpture which pays tribute to Dunbar-born naturalist John Muir, the development could be created at Hallhill in the East Lothian town.
Known as the “father of national parks” in the US, he championed wild land and his work contributed to the establishment of protected park areas in that country.
A proposal of application notice has been submitted to the local authority and, if granted, will see building take place across a 54 acre site.
It’s claimed that it could play a “major role” in supporting economic recovery in the local area after lockdown ends.
Developers plan to use “innovative” low-carbon technology to generate renewable heat and power on site and reduce its impact on the environment.
More than 1500 homes have either been built there or are under construction already.
It’s hoped that 100 of the planned affordable homes will go to key workers and that an innovation centre there will accelerate the growth of start-ups and small businesses. Since commencing work started at the Halhill development in 1999, it’s thought that 600 jobs have been created.
A report by consultants found that it’s contributing £30 million to the economy every year.
Ken Ross of Hallhill Developments Ltd commented: “We are delighted to be bringing forward proposals for our low carbon community, which we are aiming to be an exemplar development, adopting the latest low-carbon technology.
“DunBear Park will assist in creating jobs and delivering housing for key workers, who have played such vital role during Covid-19.
“It will also assist in the supporting the construction-led recovery from the current crisis.
“We will be undertaking extensive engagement on our proposals and look forward to the involvement of the community in shaping our development going forward.”
Scott’s sculpture was unveiled at the site last year at land off the A1 motorway and symbolises Muir’s travels through the American wilderness.
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