The £2.2 million refurbishment of Dickson Court in Beith, has been designed to specifically meet the needs of older residents.

Featuring 22 high-quality and accessible sheltered homes, the development illustrates North Ayrshire Council’s commitment to provide modern and energy-efficient accommodation that will meet tenants’ needs now and in the future.

Cabinet member for place, Councillor Jim Montgomerie, explained how North Ayrshire Council is making a huge difference to lives of many older residents.

He said: “We have made a huge commitment to provide our residents with warm, comfortable and modern homes to live in.

“The council has made a commitment to refurbish more than 140 sheltered homes and build 1,375 houses by spring 2024. A key part of that commitment is to provide homes for our older residents which are suitable for their needs.

“The refurbishment of Dickson Court is just the latest sheltered housing complex to be either refurbished or redeveloped, following on from major projects such as Glencairn House in Stevenston, Robert W Service Court in Kilwinning, Montgomery Court in Kilbirnie, and Vennel Gardens in Irvine.

“With further sheltered housing projects under way at Canal Court in Saltcoats, Connell Court in Kilbirnie and Watt Court in Dalry, we’re really proud of the homes we are providing for our older residents.

“The feedback we have received about the new homes has been hugely positive and I hope that the residents of Dickson Court feel the same way about their new surroundings.”

Dickson Court residents joined Provost Ian Clarkson to mark the official re-opening of the sheltered housing complex by cutting a cake.

The £2.2m refurbishment, carried out by James Frew Ltd, saw the refurbishment of 20 homes and the creation of a further two new homes, as part of the council’s aim to help people live independently at home, for as long as possible.

A new energy efficient communal heating system has been installed and all homes have been re-wired, kitchens have been re-designed and wet floor shower rooms have been installed.

The communal areas within the complex have benefited from a new scooter store, a new visiting services room and have also been fully redecorated with new windows and doors installed. The exterior of the building has been enhanced with a new roof and insulated render system which should reduce heating costs for tenants and contribute to the council’s sustainability agenda.