Work on a new £2.8 million sheltered housing complex in North Ayrshire has been completed.

Contractor James Frew Ltd carried out the refurbishment of Robert W Service Court in Kilwinning and the development was officially opened by Provost Ian Clarkson today, 14 November.

Featuring 23 sheltered homes along with two-bedroom wheelchair accessible property, the scheme involved refurbishing the previous complex, providing a modern, fit-for-purpose housing environment for the residents. Highlights include refurbished residents' bathrooms allowing them to benefit from accessible wet-floor shower rooms which promote independence.

In addition, a new residents' car park has been created, communal areas redecorated and a visiting services room developed. Elsewhere, a new scooter store and a series of internal and external improvements have been carried out.


Cllr Jim Montgomerie said: "We are delighted that our residents can now enjoy fully accessible homes, which are designed in a way that will allow future adaptations to be undertaken if and when necessary.

"We want to thank the residents for their patience as they have lived in the complex while the building work has been going on.

"We hope the fanatastic results – which include new kitchens, shower rooms, windows, fittings and central heating upgrades - make up for any inconvenience they may have experienced."

The scheme is the latest sheltered housing complex in North Ayrshire to undergo a modern refurbishment.

Construction work is also currently under way at Canal Court in Saltcoats, Dickson Court in Beith and Glencairn House in Stevenston to create modern living environments designed specifically for older people.

Council Leader Joe Cullinane said: "We have carried out an extensive modernisation programme within our sheltered housing complexes as many did not meet the needs of today's residents.

"Now, as the programme progresses, more and more of our older residents will be able to enjoy attractive and practical accommodation for years to come. 

"Robert W Service Court was no longer considered suitable housing for the 21st century, so I'm delighted to the complex is now high quality, modern and inclusive sheltered housing. I hope the residents enjoy their new surroundings."

(LM/CD)