Eildon Housing is embarking on a full modernisation programme to replace kitchens, bathrooms and heating systems to over 440 homes.

The £2.75 million contract with Mitie Property Services Ltd started in April this year.

One of the first tenants to benefit was Mr Angus Taylor, from Kelso. Mr Taylor is 96 years old, and has been an Eildon tenant since 1989. His bathroom was replaced, including the WC, wash hand-basin and floor covering. Mr Taylor chose to have his bath replaced with a shower cubicle, making it easier for him to access. Finally the bathroom was freshly decorated.

Mr Taylor said: “I couldn’t believe what was being offered at first, but when they were the finished the transformation was unbelievable.”

Eildon tenants are not the only ones to benefit from the contract. The agreement with Mitie Property Services requires them to employ a number of locally based people who are seeking training or experience in construction or maintenance related work. This would hopefully help them move onto a long term career within the industry.

One person to benefit from this is 16-year old Ryan Bell from St Boswells. Ryan recently left school and was nominated for interview by Margaret Simpson MBE of the Scottish Borders Social Enterprise Chamber CIC.

Margaret said: “Giving Ryan this opportunity is something for which we should all be justly proud. Well done to Eildon for ensuring that they maximise the community benefit and for Mitie for making it happen.”

Ryan is very positive about the opportunity of working with the national based contractor, and is hoping to develop a career in painting and decorating.

Nile Istephan, chief executive at Eildon, is encouraged by the positive start by the contractor and the quality of the works so far

He added: “The investment by Eildon in our homes will ensure they meet out tenants’ expectations and help us to meet our obligations to meet quality and energy efficiency standards.”

@EildonHousing