Work has begun on an energy efficient development of 26 homes in Bonhill.

The development in Pappert includes five four-bedroom houses to meet the rising demand from larger families within the area.

It will include six Passivhaus homes in a first for West Dunbartonshire. The homes are super-insulated and use components such as triple-glazed windows and special doors to create an airtight building fabric.

This reduces heating loss, requiring little heat and decreases fuel bills for tenants.

Alongside these, 20 more homes will achieve operational net zero carbon.

The project has been funded through the council, Vacant and Derelict Land Fund, and the Affordable Housing Supply Programme from the Scottish Government.

This development is part of a broader initiative to address the unprecedented need for social housing in the area.

Councillor Gurpreet Singh Johal, convener of Housing and Communities, said: “This development is extremely important in responding to the changing needs of our residents.

“Not only does it meet the demand for larger family homes in order to reduce the risk of overcrowding but these properties are energy sufficient and sustainable with some of them adopting innovative Passivhaus standards in a first for West Dunbartonshire.”

Councillor Hazel Sorrell, vice-convener of Housing and Communities, added: "I am pleased to see the progress which is being made and I look forward to revisiting the site once these vitally important homes are built and ready for families to move into."

CCG (Scotland) Ltd is the contractor for the development and has pledged to pay staff a real living wage, hire local subcontracting firms, and recruit at least three local employees.

They also promise to provide 12 work placements and engage with local schools.