15 September 2026
A healthier home and a brighter future for Pennyburn residents
Regional News News article
As part of Scottish Housing Day 2026, Riverside Scotland is highlighting how investing in homes creates healthier futures for its customers.
The theme of this year's campaign, Healthy Homes, Healthy Futures, recognises the vital role good quality housing plays in supporting physical health, mental wellbeing and quality of life.
Within its Pennyburn community, a major retrofit programme in partnership with Union Technical Services is transforming homes, improving energy efficiency and creating warmer, more comfortable living environments. Earlier this year the programme won Large-scale Project of the Year at the Scotland Energy Efficiency Awards 2026 and has recently been shortlisted for both National Large Scale Project Award and the prestigious National Housing Association Award at the National Energy Efficiency Awards in October, placing the project among the UK’s leading examples of energy efficiency best practice.
The project has also been shortlisted for two CIH Scotland Awards, Net Zero in Housing and Excellence in Regeneration and Sustainability, with the winners due to be announced at the awards ceremony in November.
The investment programme has included new roofing, solar panels, external and cavity wall insulation, new windows, doors and kitchens. A modern low-carbon heating system is also being installed. These improvements are helping to create homes that are warmer, more energy efficient and easier to maintain, while supporting residents to reduce their energy use and enjoy greater comfort throughout the year.
For customers, the impact goes beyond the physical improvements. Norah Mooney has had her home significantly upgraded and is delighted with the works:
"It's like moving into a new house. I've had a new roof, new windows and doors, all the cladding and exterior renewed and a beautiful new kitchen. I love baking so it’s a joy having a gorgeous new kitchen to work in! The house feels much cosier and I’m just delighted with the improvements. Once the new heating system is installed, it will make an even bigger difference. I can’t thank Riverside Scotland and the Union technical team enough – it’s lifechanging!"
At Riverside Scotland, we believe everyone deserves a home that supports their health and wellbeing. By investing in existing homes, we're helping customers live more comfortably today while creating healthier, more sustainable communities for the future.
