Two tower blocks in North Lanarkshire, have been proposed to become communities for people over the age of 60.

According to the local authority, Milton Court in Airdrie, and Whamond Tower in Motherwell, already have more than half of their residents in the over 60s age group, and it is understood that the Council's Housing and Social Work Committee have agreed plans to designate the tower blocks as housing for older residents.

Within the blocks, community rooms can host book clubs, bingo and social evenings, while hairdressers also come in for residents to enjoy. It is understood that tenants who already live in the blocks – and who are under the age of 60 – will not be affected by the proposals, but when properties do become available, priority will be given to older people.

Elaine McHugh, Head of Housing Services, explained: "Through our tower strategy and discussions with local people, we have identified these towers as places older people want to live.

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"They offer safe, secure and clean homes in areas we already have a number of older residents living. The size of the flats on offer also tends to be what older people are looking for.

"The towers are close to local shops, services, community facilities and our feedback has shown people enjoy a real sense of community spirit in the blocks. Having local facilities at close hand is also of particular benefit to those with limited mobility.

"This is an exciting development as part of our tower block strategy which is delivering safe and attractive towers for our tenants to live in and we will be speaking to our residents about the plans."

Councillor Sam Love, Convener of Housing and Social Work Services, added: "We have 3,900 properties in 48 multi-storey blocks, comprising approximately 11% of our housing stock.

"They are a valuable resource in helping us meet the housing needs and we want to make sure these properties are as safe and secure as possible. By listening and responding to our residents needs we're making our towers more attractive and desirable and creating communities people want to live in.

"We have listened to what types of homes our older people want to live in and are pleased to be taking this innovative step to create places they feel happy to stay.

"This also ties into our policy of supporting older people to live independently at home for as long possible, and is aligned with the national reshaping care agenda for older people."

(JP/IT)