TV presenter and local resident, Sally Magnusson, opened a new sheltered housing complex and day care centre in Milngavie on Friday 19th June.

The new project has been developed by Bield Housing Association. Working in partnership with East Dunbartonshire Council, Bield has created a much-needed modern facility to meet the needs of older people in Milngavie and Bearsden.

Speaking at the opening, Bield Board member, Dr Helen Mackay, said: "As a doctor and as a housing association committee member I have worked for a facility like this for fifteen years. It is a great achievement to have got there at last.

"The biggest stumbling block was flooding in Oakburn Park. This has been resolved with a flood alleviation scheme, which was completed in October 2007. We are very grateful for the financial support for this from the Scottish Government and East Dunbartonshire Council as well as from Bield. This scheme will help everyone in the area not just those in the new housing."

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Leader of East Dunbartonshire Council, Rhondda Geekie said she is pleased that the much needed housing and day care centre are finished and already being enjoyed by local people.

She said: "The accommodation is modern and well-equipped and is a welcome addition to the services and facilities available for our older population.

"Life expectancy in East Dunbartonshire is the highest in Scotland and it is right that we continue to work hard to deliver first class services to older people to ensure that they enjoy a good quality of life. I look forward to visiting the new centre in the future to see it being used and enjoyed."

The day care is purpose designed to have a domestic look and feel. It can provide care for up to 25 older people each day and will be open initially from Monday to Friday.

The 26 sheltered flats were occupied very quickly after completion. Tenants are finding the flats easy to look after, warm and secure.

(GK/JM)