Newly named Poynder Apartments following discussion with Kelso Community Council, the development will offer a mix of one and two-bedroom flats, along with the provision of onsite care and support services to people aged 60 years and above.

A range of communal facilities will be available for use by tenants and the wider community, including a community hub where meals will be prepared and served, and where social activities will take place.

Click here to see an aerial view of the site.

The historic nature and rich heritage of this site has meant architect Aitken Turnbull’s design has had to stay true to its art deco identity by retaining many original features of this attractive listed building. Dating back to the 1930s, the main frontage of the building is being retained with its iconic façade, a tower entrance, art deco detailing with teaching wings to the sides and a former science block with curved windows.

To ensure the authenticity of the building, all the windows have been reproduced to the exact original design with steel frames crafted in Liverpool and the glass supplied from Dundee. The original patterned flooring in the old main entrance is being kept, as are the outer front doors and the bannisters with the old clock in the tower being reinstated.

In a bid to be greener and more sustainable, most of the rubble from the demolished building is being retained and will be repurposed to raise the ground levels around the site.

Poynder Apartments will be complete in early 2023 with the first tenants expected to move into the development from May 2023.