Ashleigh Construction has started work to build a new £6.4 million sheltered housing complex in North Ayrshire.

The new Canal Court development in Saltcoats will see 36 new homes created for older people and has been designed specifically to meet the needs of the older population.

The facility is being built at the site of the former Canal Court and David White Centre, which has been demolished.

Features will include a communal lounge, secure landscaped courtyard, and a visiting services room and scooter store. In addition, a community hub will be developed in partnership with North Ayrshire Health & Social Care Partnership.

The new sheltered housing complex is scheduled to open in summer 2018.

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Speaking at the project's ground-breaking ceremony, Cllr Jim Montgomerie said: "One of our major priorities at North Ayrshire Council is to create homes that are suitable for the long-term needs of local residents.

"This new sheltered housing complex at Canal Court will deliver that by being fully accessible and easily adaptable to cater for the varying needs of our older population.

"We have already demonstrated how we can deliver the type of modern sheltered housing our older people need at Vennel Gardens in Irvine and Montgomery Court in Kilbirnie, allowing them to live in an environment tailored to their needs.

"These developments can transform the way the residents are supported and enable them to stay in their homes for as long as possible, while also helping to tackle the growing problem of social isolation."

hub South West Scotland Chief executive, Michael McBrearty, added: "This type of project is so important in ensuring the best possible care and accommodation in our communities, and we are delighted to be working with North Ayrshire Council and Ashleigh Construction Ltd to deliver these fantastic new residences.

"We have an excellent track record in delivering education and health facilities to the authority, and look forward to improving upon this relationship in a new sector."

(LM)