RESIDENTS have moved into new flats which were built as part of a £9 million development in Firhill. 

The one and two bedroom 76 flats are the latest additions to Queens Cross Housing Association’s stock.

The two developments of eight flats on Garscube Road, and 68 flats on Leny Street represent total investment from the association of £9 million.

The Garscube flats fill a gap site and the Leny Street development brings back into use a former industrial site behind Firhill Stadium that has been long vacated.

As part of the development new streetscaping benefits the existing tenements which also overlook Ruchill Park and offer unrivalled views over the city.

Queens Cross Housing Association manages a total of 4300 homes in the north west of the city.

All the properties are full insulated with solar panels fitted to help keep fuel bills down.

Elie Harerimana was one of the last tenants to pick up his keys for his new Leny Street flat.

He said: "I was sharing accommodation just round the corner before so it’s great to get your own space.

"The flat is fantastic and in a great neighbourhood just ten minutes by bus from the city centre."

Elie has been a tenant of Queens Cross for six years and works in the hospitality sector while training to be full time photographer.

The two developments are providing secure, long term, affordable housing to around 120 people.

Neil Manley, Queens Cross’s Director of Finance, Investment and Development, said: "Although some people like Elie were existing tenants, moving into more suitable accommodation, the vast majority are new tenants.

"These two developments are providing first class, affordable housing to many families who have either been in unsecured private tenancies or other temporary accommodation."

The two developments are just the latest in an ongoing house building programme by Queens Cross. Their recently launched business plan outlines proposals for a further 600 new homes in the neighbourhoods they serve over the next three years.

Neil added: "The completion of these homes is further step towards making Queens Cross one of the most desirable areas of the city to live."