Work on council-backed housing developments is set to resume shortly.
But bosses at the West Dunbartonshire authority say the coronavirus-induced shutdown will delay the delivery of new homes by months.
Planning to restart work on new-build sites at Aitkenbar in Bellsmyre, the Dumbarton Harbour project and Alexandria’s Creveul Court, is currently underway.
Construction work stopped on the orders of the Scottish Government in March, as part of the coronavirus lockdown.
But as restrictions ease, Holyrood has given the green light for building works to begin again in phase 2 - hoped to be announced as part of First Minister Nicola Sturgeon’s package of measures on Thursday.
However, guidance issued from Holyrood allows preparations for a socially-distanced return to be made now.
The councillor at the helm of overseeing the area’s housing stock, has reiterated their commitment to the builds.
Councillor Diane Docherty, Convener of Housing and Communities, said: “ We are committed to delivering properties that our residents are proud to call their home, which are high quality, affordable and also environmentally friendly.
“That aim has not changed, although the deadline for completion and moving in may have to be extended slightly.”
Council chiefs say their building partners have begun rolling out additional safety measures - set to include physical distancing and improved hygiene practices.
But timescales will still take a hit and the works are estimated to now be four months behind schedule.
The authority has pledged to share updates on completion as soon as possible.
Councillor Docherty added: “We are continuing to follow government guidance and are working behind the scenes to ensure work can recommence as soon as it is safe to do so.
“Work is underway to consider the timescales for the programme, but in the meantime if any resident is interested in applying for one of these lovely new homes then please get in touch.”
Vice Convener of Housing and Communities, Councillor Caroline McAllister, said: “It will be great to see things moving again on our sites.
“Work is underway to ensure that they are as safe as they can possibly be when we do get to that stage, including the introduction of physical distancing.
“All of these developments will bring a great deal of benefit to areas surrounding them, and the facilities on offer mean the sites are bound to be popular.”
For more information about the Council’s new build programme, please contact: morehomes@west-dunbarton.gov.uk
