Construction of new flats in heart of Dingwall a sign of 'green shoots of recovery' for Ross-shire economy following impact of Covid-19 coronavirus crisis, developer Ark Estates believes
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WORK on a new flats in Dingwall is an early sign of the 'green shoots of recovery' for the local economy, a developer believes.
Ask Estates made the remarks as it prepares to commence construction on six new one-bedroom flats in the heart of the town – No 1-6 Joe Yates Court.
Named in honour of one of the town’s great characters, the new development will enjoy easy access to Dingwall’s main pedestrianised shopping street.
Work was delayed owing to the impact of the coronavirus crisis and ensuing lockdown, but the start of construction is being widely welcomed in the community.
Ark Estates said that start of construction is the latest sign of the green shoots of recovery for the Highlands, but James Manson from main contractor O’Brien Homes, is keen to stress that the return to work on the site will be carried out adhering to enhanced safety measures:
“The strict Covid-19 health and safety procedures we will be introducing at Joe Yates Court include the introduction of temperature checks for staff and site visitors, a rota work system and one way routes to facilitate social distancing," he said.
“There will also be enhanced facilities and increased cleaning on site, and new systems for materials delivery introduced where social distancing can be maintained. There will be a phased return to work, building up from a small number of workers, while safe systems of working are monitored and assessed. We will also introduce increased parking to facilitate workers commuting to work alone.”
Willie Gray, managing director of developer Ark Estates, commented: “It’s great to see work commencing at Joe Yates Court. Now lockdown restrictions are easing we are delighted to be able to get back to work. But the safety of workers on site and the supply chain remains the priority, so the phased return to work will be strictly in line with government advice.
“Generally, I think it will be a real boost to the local economy which has suffered due to coronavirus. We have O’Brien Homes as principle contractor on the development and the use of local trades and labour will have a hugely positive effect on the local economy, providing employment for up to 30 workers during the build.”
Councillor Margaret Paterson – who knew Joe Yates – said: “Joe Yates was a stalwart in the town for many years. He was well loved and well respected. Once you met Joe you could never forget him as he was full of enthusiasm for his beloved town of Dingwall. He was a member of many groups in the town and if you needed something done Joe was there ready and able. He was fantastic as compere for various concerts in the town and no matter how many times I heard his jokes they still made me laugh. Joe Yates was a legend.
“I’m delighted about the development as we desperately need housing and also the jobs boost at this difficult time. When people see building work going on they know that the future is looking up in this difficult time we have been through and this is some light at the end of the tunnel.”
Cllr Gordon Adam, chairman of Highland Council’s Black Isle, Dingwall and Seaforth Committee, said: “Local members welcome this addition of six new homes being developed in Dingwall which will provide much-needed affordable one bedroom flats, in line with the council’s housing commitments.”
Ark Estates and O’Brien Homes welcome any questions relating to the reopening of the site. If local residents or businesses have any queries or concerns, they should email arkestates@dynam.co.uk
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