The site has been empty since 2010 when students and staff moved to the new build school, which overlooks the old land.
Cunninghame Housing Association Limited purchased the grounds earlier this year and, following a consultation period, have applied to build 45 homes which will be available to rent.
The plans have been in the pipeline for some time, with public engagement taking place in the summer.
Frank Sweeney, chief executive of Cunninghame Housing Association, said: “Cunninghame Housing Association is working in partnership with Dumfries and Galloway Council and the Scottish Government to deliver 45 new high quality affordable homes for rent on the site of the former Lockerbie Academy which is located close to the town centre.
“The delivery of these new homes will meet much needed demand on the Common Housing Register for rented accommodation within Lockerbie.
“We are hopeful of obtaining the necessary statutory consents towards the end of this year with a site start scheduled for spring 2019.”
And while nearby residents have praised the housing associate for listening to concerns, resident Jo Edkins says there are still major concerns about the development.
She said: “To be fair to Cunninghame Housing, they have taken onboard certain comments, especially regarding road safety.
“They really have listened but I know the majority of residents are still concerned about the social housing aspect, not knowing who will move in, and the volume of homes.”
Original plans for the ex school site were to erect 48 homes for rent but planners dropped the number to 45.
Jo added: “A lot of us do not think this is the right place for over 40 social homes, right in the middle of a private residential area.”
