A drop-in information session will take place at Dalkeith Arts Centre today from 2.30pm until 6pm.

Jarnac Court currently includes council offices that will no longer be required by 2019. The drop-in event will showcase proposals to turn the upper two floors of one of the buildings into residential accommodation.

Plans have already been presented to Midlothian Council outlining the benefits of the project. As well as being more supportive to local people, the office conversion will be more cost effective than using bed and breakfast accommodation for homeless households.

The consultation event will provide an opportunity to look at the plans and learn about the aims of the project. Housing services staff will also be available to answer any questions.

Councillor Stephen Curran, the council’s cabinet member with responsibility for housing, said: “We want to consult with local residents and get some feedback on the opportunity to re-use an empty council building, while providing quality services for homeless households.

“Homelessness can happen to anyone at any point in their life for a variety of reasons and Midlothian Council need to make sure accommodation is provided in the right places to meet the needs of homeless people. Residents are welcome to come along to these informative sessions to have their say.”