The JR Group have successfully completed the transformation of a historic site in the heart of Tranent, turning the former Fa’side Lodge and church grounds into a vibrant new community.
Awarded to The JR Group following a competitive tender by East Lothian Council, the development delivers a total of 28 high-quality homes, designed and built to meet the highest standards of accessibility, sustainability, and energy efficiency.
The redevelopment marks a major milestone for the area, breathing new life into a site that has played a central role in Tranent’s history for centuries. Most recently home to Fa’side Lodge Care Home before its demolition in 2016, the site has also been the location of a church, a GP surgery, and the former Tranent Public School.
Working closely with East Lothian Council and the Scottish Government, The JR Group has created a mix of modern, future-proofed homes. The council now takes ownership of 10 one-bedroom flats, four two-bedroom flats, and a fully wheelchair-accessible bungalow for council rent. A further 13 homes, including a mix of one- and two-bedroom flats, cottage flats, and bungalows, will be owned and managed by the East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership.
Supported by £2.621 million in Scottish Government grant funding, the development has been built in line with Housing for Varying Needs standards, and includes forward-thinking features such as zero direct emissions heating, digital connectivity, infrastructure for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and automatic fire suppression systems.
Andrew Dallas, Projects Director at The JR Group, said: “We are proud to have worked with East Lothian Council to bring its vision for this important site to life. This is the first project we have worked with the council on, and it is a fantastic example of how unused and derelict land can be repurposed to deliver modern, energy-efficient homes that meet real local need.
“It’s been a privilege to contribute to the town’s regeneration, transforming a once-vacant site into a thriving residential community that complements its historic surroundings.”
Throughout the project, The JR Group was committed to supporting the local community. The team donated boxing gloves to the local boxing gym, sponsored a Tranent FC matchday, and provided gardening tools to East Lothian Council as part of its community benefits programme.
Councillor Andy Forrest, East Lothian Council Spokesperson for Housing and Property Maintenance, said: “This development has generated a great deal of local interest given its central location and history. The JR Group has delivered a high-quality project that provides much-needed affordable and assisted living homes for our community. These properties will make a real difference to tenants and highlight the importance of continuing our affordable housing programme across East Lothian.”
This project stands as a testament to The JR Group’s expertise in delivering sensitive, community-focused developments, blending historical significance with contemporary housing solutions that will benefit residents for generations to come.
