The Provost of North Ayrshire has officially opened a new modern facility as well as a housing development.

New modern amenity flats along with a Day Care and Resource Centre were officially opened by Provost Joan Sturgeon on 11 August in Largs.

The facilities, located on the site of the former Stevenson institute, were created as part of an initiative between the council's Housing Service and the North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership.

The new development includes the construction of the £1.3m Stevenson Court housing development comprising 11 two-bedroom amenity flats.

The flats have been specifically designed for older people and include features such as level access showers, accessible sockets and switches, and a communal lift to help tenants remain independent.

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Residents are also able to use individual, ground floor, secure stores which can be used for the charging and storing of mobility scooters.

To ensure the new development complements its surroundings, the stone bell tower from the original Stevenson Institute has been restored and incorporated into the entrance feature of the flats.

The Stevenson Day Service and Resource Centre has also been designed in a 'dementia friendly' manner and incorporates a range of facilities to meet the needs of its users.

A safe outdoor space has also been developed.

Service users and their families were heavily involved in the facility's design and were encouraged to share their ideas to shape its construction.

Councillor Tony Gurney said: "The new Stevenson Court development features modern, high quality housing which has been carefully designed to meet the needs of our elderly residents to allow them remain living independently in the community.

"We recognise there is a need for affordable homes in the Largs area and this project shows our determination to address this issue. It also emphasises our commitment to address the housing needs of residents across the area."

Provost Joan Sturgeon added: "I was absolutely delighted to be able to mark the official opening of the new Stevenson Court and Stevenson Day Centre and Resource Centre. These are two fantastic developments which will bring huge benefits to the people of Largs and the North Coast area."

(LM)