TENANTS of North Ayrshire social housing group Ancho have overwhelmingly voted to transfer to Cairn Housing Association.

Some 92 per cent of those who took part in a ballot voted in favour of the transfer, which will see the two groups join forces.

The move follows a successful constitutional partnership between Irvine-based Ancho and Cairn, established in 2018.

A Cairn spokesperson said: "While the partnership achieved much, the time has come for both organisations to join forces, creating a stronger, more efficient housing association that will better serve tenants in the years to come.

"The transfer to Cairn will deliver numerous benefits to Ancho tenants, including significant investment in homes, communities and local services.

"Proposals were shaped on the back of comprehensive tenant engagement to ensure Cairn are delivering what matters most."

Audrey Simpson, chief executive of Cairn, said: “We are delighted with the result of the tenant vote and look forward to welcoming Ancho tenants fully into the Cairn family.

"This transfer allows us to build on the strong foundations of our partnership and provide even better services, invest in homes, and ensure we continue to meet the needs of our tenants.”

Angus Lamont, chair of Cairn’s board, added: “This is an exciting new chapter for both organisations.

"The transfer means we can offer more efficient, streamlined services while maintaining the strong local focus that tenants in North Ayrshire value.”

Bill Findlay, chair of Ancho’s board, added: “Our tenants have voted for positive change. This transfer will deliver the benefits they need and deserve, while preserving the local services that are so important.

"We are excited to see the impact this will have over the coming years.”

Cairn Housing Association is a leading social landlord providing affordable homes and housing services to communities across Scotland.

With more than 4,000 properties, Cairn’s reach spans the length and breadth of the country, from Caithness to the Scottish Borders.

Cairn operates from offices in Edinburgh, Bellshill, Irvine, Inverness, and Thurso, ensuring a local presence and support in the areas they serve.