Eleanor Derbyshire will work with Ayrshire Housing’s chief executive, Lesley-Anne Junner on planning and implementing the specification, procurement, programming and delivery of the association’s new build programme.

“We have ambitious plans for new build over the next five years with outline plans laid out in our business plan for 91 new homes in Ayr, Maybole, Coylton and Kirkmichael,” said Lesley-Anne. “As well as plans to bring 50 more existing properties into the social rented sector so Eleanor will be a key colleague in delivering this expansion, I’m delighted to welcome her on board.”

A key part of the role will be developing and managing relationships with local authorities and the Scottish Government to ensure new build developments meet local needs and to ensure that grant funding needs are met. The role will also involve the identification and delivery of future development opportunities.

Ayrshire Housing was established in 2003 through the merger of Carrick Housing Association and South Ayrshire Homes. Since then, it has grown rapidly to become one of the area’s leading providers of high quality, affordable rented housing, managing 1700 homes in both urban and rural environments.

Eleanor is currently director of property services at Thenue Housing Association, which manages around 3500 homes across Glasgow. 

She said: “I am excited to be joining Ayrshire Housing in the New Year, and leading on their ambitious programme to deliver new sustainable, high quality, affordable homes throughout South Ayrshire.”