Falkirk Council shortlisted for three Scottish Housing Awards
Three Falkirk Council projects and achievements have been shortlisted for the Scottish Housing Awards 2026, recognising work to deliver affordable homes, support tenants and help people settle into their communities.
The nominations cover three categories: Excellence in Development for Affordable Housing, Young Achiever in Housing and Working in Partnership.
The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on Friday 13 November.
Woodend Farm - Excellence in Development for Affordable Housing
The £31 million redevelopment of Woodend Farm in Hallglen has been shortlisted for its transformation of a derelict former riding stable into a new neighbourhood of 111 affordable homes.
Delivered by Falkirk Council, the development includes the restoration of the historic Farmhouse and Steading, which had suffered years of deterioration and extensive fire damage.
Working with Historic Environment Scotland and the Council's Conservation Officer, the project has preserved the site's historic character while creating 12 homes within the restored farmhouse.
The wider development provides a mix of family homes, smaller properties and accessible accommodation, alongside improved pedestrian links, road safety measures and green spaces.
Local residents helped shape the plans, particularly the decision to retain the historic buildings, ensuring the development reflects the area's heritage while meeting modern housing needs.
Aidan Lewis - Young Achiever in Housing
Falkirk Council Housing Officer Aidan Lewis has been shortlisted for the Young Achiever in Housing award in recognition of his commitment to supporting tenants and improving housing services.
Aidan has helped tenants facing complex personal and financial circumstances. He has also supported vulnerable tenants to access appropriate accommodation and services, contributed to housing safety improvements and helped develop guidance and training for colleagues.
Alongside his full-time role, Aidan has completed a Master's degree in Housing Studies with Merit.
His nomination recognises both the practical difference he has made to tenants and his wider contribution to the housing sector.
Providing a Warm Welcome to New Scots - Working in Partnership
The Falkirk New Scots Partnership Forum has been shortlisted for its work to help people who have arrived from other countries settle into life in Falkirk and build connections within their communities.
Established by Falkirk Council in Spring 2025, the Forum brings together community groups, third-sector organisations and public agencies to help new Scots connect with and participate in existing community activities, services and networks reducing social isolation and supporting integration within local communities.
Since April 2025, 11 organisations have received funding through the Council's Community Cohesion Integration Fund. Supported by Home Office funding to help New Scots settle and build lives in their communities, the fund creates opportunities for people to participate in local activities, services and networks, building relationships and a sense of belonging alongside other members of the community.
So far, 305 New Scots have been supported through these activities, with participants reporting reduced isolation and improved wellbeing and stronger connections to their local communities, while helping to foster greater understanding and inclusion across the Falkirk area.
The nomination recognises the contribution of local organisations working together to help people feel part of their communities.
Councillor Stacey Devine, Falkirk Council's Housing spokesperson, said:
To be shortlisted in three categories is a fantastic recognition of the work taking place across our housing services and the partnerships that help us deliver for local communities.
"Woodend Farm shows what can be achieved by bringing a neglected site back into use, providing much-needed affordable homes while protecting an important part of our local heritage.
"Aidan's nomination recognises the difference that dedicated housing staff can make to people's lives, while the New Scots partnership demonstrates the value of organisations working together to help people settle and feel part of their communities.
"These nominations reflect the commitment of our staff and partners, and I wish everyone involved the very best at the awards.
The Scottish Housing Awards 2026 ceremony takes place on Friday 13 November.