THE first show homes have now opened at a housing development which claims to mark a shift away from car-based living to a pedestrian-friendly lifestyle.

Minister for Local Government and Planning Derek Mackay marked the milestone at Mactaggart & Mickel Group's Polnoon development in Eaglesham.

The housebuilder says it encapsulates a new design approach to build a better quality living environment, creating a "conservation area of tomorrow."

The 121-home development forms part of the Scottish Government's Designing Streets agenda, setting new standards in urban planning.

Designed to meet the needs of pedestrians rather than vehicles, it includes interconnected shared areas such as a central square, lanes and courts, making a better use of space and encouraging walking and cycling.

The Scottish Government worked with the developer and East Renfrewshire Council to deliver a revised masterplan for the site which originally received planning permission in 2006.

Consent was granted for the new plans in October 2009 and construction started last year.

Mr Mackay said: "The Polnoon project has taken Scottish Government planning policy and applied it to show how it can work, and pay dividends.

"Taking the time to consider and apply good design not only enhances our environment but also our well-being.

"This demonstrates what can be achieved when we challenge the way we think about streets, public spaces and design."

ewan.fergus@ eveningtimes.co.uk