The £2.8 million development at Robert W Service Court, Kilwinning, has been designed to specifically meet the needs of the older population in North Ayrshire.

Featuring 23 high-quality sheltered homes, including a two-bedroom home for a wheelchair user, the development illustrates North Ayrshire Council’s commitment to provide high quality, affordable accommodation that meets current and future requirements.

Provost Ian Clarkson officially opened Robert W Service sheltered housing complex in a special celebration on Tuesday 14 November in front of invited guests and attended by some of the residents.

Councillor Jim Montgomerie, cabinet member for place, 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 fantastic results – which include new kitchens, shower rooms, windows, fittings and central heating upgrades - make up for any inconvenience they may have experienced.”

The refurbishment of Robert W Service Court has created an improved 23-unit complex, providing a modern, fit-for-purpose housing environment for the residents.

Residents’ bathrooms have been refurbished 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.

The project, which was funded by the council with support from the Scottish Government, also includes a new scooter store and a series of internal and external improvements.

Robert W Service Court is just the latest sheltered housing complex in North Ayrshire to undergo a state-of-the-art refurbishment.

In the past few years, the council has completed projects at Montgomery Court in Kilbirnie, Vennel Gardens in Irvine and George Aitken Court, Ardrossan.

Construction work is 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.

North Ayrshire 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.”

The refurbishment of Robert W Service Court was carried out by James Frew Ltd, who supported the council’s ambition to deliver community benefits for local people.

The company runs a Modern Apprenticeship programme that gives young people the opportunity to earn while they learn. Jordan Rae, 19, from Kilwinning, is currently serving his apprenticeship with the company and has been working at Robert W Service Court.