SBHA opens first Garages to Homes in Scotland
*Press release*
Scottish Borders Housing Association (SBHA) has officially opened Scotland’s first HUSK Garages to Homes (G2H) development in Jedburgh, transforming disused garage blocks into high-quality, spacious and energy-efficient homes designed to meet local housing needs using modern methods of construction.
The launch event on Tuesday 5th August 2025 saw SBHA welcome guests including Tenants, community members, local councillors, partner organisations and affordable housing developers from across Scotland to Butler Court, where four accessible bungalows have been created. There are another three homes across two other sites on Lothian Road in Jedburgh, and a further six homes will follow in Hawick in the coming weeks. In total there will be 10 two bed and 3 one bed homes.
The homes have been delivered in partnership with HUSK, which specialises in converting redundant garage sites into new, accessible homes without the need for major demolition, so reducing waste and environmental impact.
These are the first HUSK homes in Scotland and come with a range of key features, including air source heat pumps, PV solar panels, a fire suppression system, and A-rated EPCs. The homes are designed with fully level access, including adapted shower rooms to ensure accessibility for all residents.
Julia Mulloy, SBHA Chief Executive, said:
“This development is a fantastic example of how we can think differently about the spaces in our communities. By transforming disused garages into much-needed homes, we’re increasing housing options within communities and enhancing the local environment for residents. We would like to thank South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) whose funding allowed the initial feasibility study to be carried out in partnership with Berwickshire Housing Association, as well the Scottish Government, Scottish Borders Council and Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS). We would also like to thank all those who gave their feedback through pre-planning and planning consultations, allowing us to ensure that this housing solution meets local needs.”
Sally Thomas, SFHA Chief Executive, added:
“Scotland is experiencing a housing emergency – with a quarter of a million people still waiting for an affordable home so the need is huge and growing.
As well as more homes, they need to be the right homes, in the right places. Homes that meet people’s needs, in places they want to live. It’s developments like Butler Court that help us get there — delivering affordable, sustainable and, most importantly, accessible housing in local communities where people want to stay.”
Russell Edwards, Managing Director of HUSK, commented:
“We’re proud to work alongside SBHA to deliver homes that make a real difference. The Garages to Homes model allows us to reuse existing structures in a sustainable way, providing high-quality living spaces while reducing waste and construction time. We look forward to delivering this innovative product across many other areas of Scotland ”
The development has been named Butler Court in honour of Bill Butler (1937–1999), a much-loved and well-known figure in Jedburgh. Bill was recognised locally for his garage business, his cheerful participation in the town’s annual fancy dress parade, and his enthusiastic support of Jed-Forest Rugby Club. The name celebrates Bill’s strong community spirit — a fitting connection for a development that has transformed disused garages into vibrant new homes.
Thanks to our Partners
- Partners: HUSK, Summers Inman, Thomson Gray, SOSE, Scottish Borders Council (SBC), and various local and national sub-contractors
One of the new homes at Butler Court
Clockwise from top left:
One of our new homes at Butler Court.
SFHA CE Sally Thomas cuts the ribbon at the official opening.
(L-r) Convenor of SBHA’s Customer Board Michael Levack, HUSK Managing Director Russell Edwards, Sally Thomas and SBHA CE Julia Mulloy with the development’s Secured by Design certificate, which was presented on the day by a representative from Police Scotland.
The family of the late Bill Butler, a well-known figure in the Jedburgh community, for whom the development is named. They are (l-r) his daughter Carol Paxton, his wife Jeanie, son-in-law David Rutherford and grandson Adam Thomson.