The new tenants are moving into the Glow Garren estate at the former Philips factory site in Hamilton, which is being built by leading affordable housing developer Lovell, working in partnership with the council.

Lovell is handing out 46 festive bundles including a £20 shopping voucher, warm throw, an eco-kettle, and other festive treats to help with Christmas costs.

Councillor Davie McLachlan, Chair of the Council’s Housing and Technical Resources Committee, said: “Moving house is always a stressful experience but even more so in the run-up to Christmas. However, I am sure this move will be a very exciting experience for residents moving into their brand-new homes.

“This thoughtful gift for new residents will, I am sure, be very much appreciated and make the transition that little more special as they settle into their new homes.

“This Glow Garren development provides a welcome boost to the council’s plan for an additional supply target of 1300 affordable homes in the current administration.”

Lovell is building 163 homes on the development, 46 of them affordable housing built as part of the developer’s planning obligation which is a welcome addition to the council’s housing stock. They comprise 18 two-bed flats with 3 amenity and 3 wheelchair accessible flats on the ground floor and a mix of 2 and 3-bed family homes.

The homes are part of the council’s Strategic Housing Investment Plan which is supported by grant funding from the Scottish Government.

New tenant, Kirsty Phillips, said: “I am delighted at being given this hamper which is very much appreciated as I settle into my new home.

“I was already looking forward to spending my first Christmas here, so this generous gift is a lovely bonus to help make me feel even more at home.”

Lovell teamed with Aldi and Greenham to create the hampers for those who are now living on site.

Sarah Freel, Head of Partnerships at Lovell Partnerships, said: "The Glow Garren Development is really coming together thanks to our team here at Lovell, South Lanarkshire Council and our supply chain who helped bring the vision to life. It’s great that some of the new tenants have moved in and we can’t wait to hand over the final affordable homes next year.

“We wanted to ensure those who have already moved into the development felt supported by us this Christmas with hampers that have been put together by the team, with donations from Aldi and Greenham to help towards Christmas costs at a time that’s challenging for so many. We hope they enjoy their first Christmas in their new homes, and we can’t wait to welcome the next wave of tenants to the area soon.”