The final home at Cala Homes’ Saltcoats Grange development has been sold, marking the completion of a major housing and community investment in Gullane.
The completion of Saltcoats Grange brings to a close a programme that began in 2016, when Cala Homes (East) was selected to redevelop the former Scottish Fire and Rescue College site, prioritising brownfield land to support sustainable growth in the area.
Since then, Cala has delivered four developments across Gullane, delivering 266 private homes alongside 89 affordable homes in partnership with housing associations, helping to meet a broad range of local housing needs.
Saltcoats Grange, the largest of these developments, has seen new homes created alongside wider community benefits, including the recent handover of affordable housing to Places for People and the delivery of new footpath links designed to better connect local communities.
Derek Lawson, Strategic Land Director for Cala Homes (East), said: “This development represents years of careful planning, collaboration and delivery, and we are proud of what has been achieved in Gullane.
“From the homes themselves to the wider community benefits, our aim has always been to create something that leaves a positive and lasting legacy for local residents.”
Across the various Gullane sites, Cala has contributed just under £7 million in Section 75 payments to East Lothian Council, supporting key local infrastructure and services. Funding has been directed towards Gullane Primary School, North Berwick High School, transport improvements, sports pitches and play equipment across Gullane, as well as contributions to rail and the wider Transport Scotland road network.
Earlier this year, Cala handed over the final phase of affordable homes at Saltcoats Grange – including a number of bungalow properties – providing a wider range of housing options for local people.
Willie Lockhart, Group Operations Director for Places for People Developments, said: “At Places for People, we champion the power of partnership in tackling the housing crisis, and Saltcoats Grange is a prime example of what can be achieved through true collaboration.
“This final handover of high-quality affordable homes not only provides new opportunities for people who want to live in Gullane, but also demonstrates how multi-tenure, multi-generational communities can be created by listening to local needs.
“As the development nears completion, we’re proud to have played a part in strengthening the village’s housing mix and ensuring local people have access to safe, sustainable homes for years to come.”
Alongside delivering new homes, Cala has improved connectivity. Construction is under way on a new footpath through Millennium Wood, due for completion in July, creating an important walking link for residents and visitors.
Cala’s plans for an additional connection linking Muirfield Gardens to surrounding routes have been approved, further enhancing access across the wider area. This work is due to begin this summer. The development has also delivered new landscaped areas and green spaces designed to mature over time.
Beyond infrastructure, Cala has supported a range of local initiatives and charities throughout the development period, contributing to community groups and grassroots activities that help strengthen the social fabric of Gullane and the wider East Lothian area.
In addition to the Section 75 payments Cala has partnered with Muirfield Riding Therapy, a charity which delivers equine-assisted therapy and riding opportunities for children and adults with additional support needs.
The company has also sponsored the Gullane in Bloom event, donated a shipping container to help store essential equipment for the Gullane Sports Development Trust and awarded funds to support the Gullane After School Club.
A further financial contribution of £25,000 has recently been made towards local good causes, the beneficiaries being selected by the community.
Malcolm Duck, chair of Gullane Area Community Council, said: “Investment of this kind is hugely welcome and will help support projects that deliver lasting benefits for people across Gullane and the wider ward. The funding allows us to back initiatives that improve community life, enhance local facilities and create opportunities for residents of all ages. This award will be used in Gullane.
“Cala’s contribution is a positive example of how developers can invest in the places they help shape.”
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Derek added: “Helping shape the growth of Gullane over the past decade has carried a responsibility, and we’ve always recognised that. We also know that large-scale development brings disruption at times, particularly during construction, and we are grateful for the patience and input of the local community throughout.
“With Saltcoats Grange now complete, we hope the community can see that our intention has always been to be a positive, proactive partner for Gullane. It’s been a privilege to contribute to the village’s long-term future, and we’re proud of what has been achieved together.”
As Cala’s work in Gullane draws to a close, the housebuilder continues its investment across East Lothian, with its current focus now on its development in Dunbar, offering a new opportunity for buyers to be part of a growing and well-connected coastal community.
