The provision of extra care housing is an integral part of the council’s commitment to supporting older people to live as independently as possible in their own homes and within communities for longer. It combines purpose-built design with the provision of different and flexible services on site.

The Todlaw development close to the centre of Duns will offer 30 new apartments which are a mix of one and two-bedroom properties, all of which offer spacious and accessible living design solutions.

The range of services and facilities available include repair and maintenance of the property; easy access, secure garden areas; a range of activities, interest groups and events; use of technology and systems designed to provide alerts and functions to provide peace of mind and keep tenants connected and safe.

Councillor Mark Rowley, SBC’s executive member for economic regeneration and finance, (who also has responsibility for housing), said: “Creating appropriate homes that increase the amount of care that can be provided to people in their own homes remains as important as ever and I am delighted that Trust has made such significant progress at Todlaw against the particularly challenging circumstances of the past year.

“With tenancies due to be available in the spring, I would encourage anyone with an interest in the development to get in touch to find out more. The location close to the centre of Duns makes it ideal for anyone looking to live independently and as part of their local community for as long as possible, with the comfort and security of knowing additional support and amenities are available.”

Rhona McLeod, chief executive officer, Trust Housing Association, added: “We’re really pleased with our new housing at Duns which provides two different types of service for older people. Our Amenity service offers safety and security features and access to staff support if needed. Our innovative Extra Care housing provides 24 hour staff care and support.

“Our aim is to support people to live independently, in their own home, for as long as possible and remain part of their local community. 

“Working in partnership with Scottish Borders Council has allowed us to deliver this much needed housing for older people in Duns. We’re delighted with our spacious, energy efficient homes which are finished to a high degree and very much look forward to welcoming our first tenants soon.”

Agreement to proceed with the development was secured at a meeting of the council’s executive committee in August 2018 when grant funding of £1.73 million was approved from the council’s Affordable Housing Investment Budget.

The executive committee also agreed at its October 2018 meeting to the allocation of £1.8m to Eildon Housing Association to enable the development of 39 extra care homes in Galashiels. More information on this will be available later in the year.

Both projects are part of the council’s Integrated Strategic Plan for Older People’s Housing, Care and Support Needs.