The blueprint for future housing to replace Largs Academy and Kelburn Primary is set to be revealed at a forthcoming public event.
Cllr Alan Hill, who alerted the ‘News’ to the event, said, “Officers across the council and the Health and Social Care Partnership have come up with some exciting proposals specifically designed to meet the needs of residents in the Largs area.
“These plans include 28 sheltered housing units, 18 amenity houses, 22 units aimed at those with special needs and 54 general council houses. There will also be a new resource centre to provide support to those older people in the sheltered and amenity houses and dedicated space for staff working with those with special needs.
“All of the properties will be built to modern standards and include solar panels. There will also be a district heating system built into to the site to provide regular and cheaper heating to the new properties.
The council is holding two events to allow local people to view and provide feedback on the draft plans for the site. The events will take place at Largs Academy, 25 Flatt Road, Largs, on: Wednesday 31 January, 6pm – 8pm, Thursday 1 February 2018, 2pm- 4pm
It is expected that there will be significant demand to attend these sessions and residents are asked to reserve a place. To book a place at an event, call 01294 324031 or email developmentandstrategy@north-ayrshire.gov.uk
The plans will be online from Wednesday, 31 January, until Friday, 23 February, at www.northayrshire.community/consultations/open-consultations/. Online visitors will also be able to submit feedback.
The 122 new units in Largs will help ease one of the most highly-pressured housing markets in Ayrshire and will provide a wide range of accommodation to meet different needs. This includes wheelchair-liveable properties, amenity bungalows, supported accommodation, sheltered housing and general needs homes.
A sheltered housing complex with a community hub will also be developed as part of the project.
The Flatt Road site also encompasses land which houses the Largs and District Community Association Centre. Discussions are currently under way with the association to find suitable alternative accommodation. These options include community space at the new Largs Campus development, the proposed Community Hub at the new sheltered housing complex, or in one of a number of other public buildings in Largs.
The association has provided ‘a long and valuable service for the community’, but there is an overwhelming need for new housing for the benefit of the community. The council will work with the Association to find a suitable new location.
Cllr Jim Montgomerie, Cabinet Member for Place, said: “Late last year, we made a commitment to dramatically increase the number of new Council houses being built over the next five years. That commitment to build 1000 sustainable and high-quality homes will bring positive benefits right across North Ayrshire, providing accommodation in areas where people need new housing and, in turn, securing employment and training opportunities for businesses and residents.”