State-of-the-art apartment complex opens in Kirkcudbright

A new state-of-the-art apartment complex for adults with learning and physical disabilities welcomed its first tenants last week.

School Close is our brand new specialist care service in the heart of Kirkcudbright that will offer tenants a life-enhancing living environment, which promotes a more independent way of living.

The purpose-built supported living service, which is managed by Community Integrated Care, was developed by Loreburn Housing Association in partnership with Dumfries and Galloway Council. Last week, it welcomed nine people who had previously been supported at Mansefield House, a residential care home in the town.

It offers 13 modern apartments, which include innovative features such as assistive technologies and secure door systems. The complex was specifically designed with the new tenants in mind, enabling them to lead more independent lives. Loreburn secured funding for the project through the Scottish Government’s Affordable Housing Supply Programme and Dumfries & Galloway Council.

Next month, a celebration event will be held to officially open the home.

Heather Birnie, Service Manager for School Close and formerly of Mansefield House, says: “We’ve worked closely with Dumfries & Galloway Council and Loreburn Housing Association to ensure that School Close is tailored perfectly to the needs of the people we support. Importantly, the new apartments are a stone’s throw from Mansefield House, so the people we support can continue to enjoy living in the community they know and love.

Heather continues: “The people we support are really excited to have moved into their very own homes, supporting much more independent lives. They love having their own space in their own flats, knowing that they also now have great assistive technologies to support them.”

Fiona Pennington, Development Officer at Loreburn Housing Associations said: “In working in partnership with Community Integrated Care and Dumfries and Galloway Council, we have been able to create purpose built flats and new homes bespoke for the local residents. We were all involved in the design and construction stages of the project, and the tenants moving in also had the opportunity to choose the finish of their own flat.”

Councillor Craig Peacock, Chairperson of the Council’s Housing Sub Committee said: “The Council is delighted to have supported the delivery of such an innovative project through the Strategic Housing Investment Plan. This new development will help support people to live in their local community for as long as possible. We have a strong track record of working in partnership with Loreburn Housing Association to help meet a wide range of housing needs. Community Integrated Care is a highly regarded care provider that will offer a very person centred approach to improving the quality of lives of their clients and the people of Dumfries and Galloway.”