Plans for a modern dementia unit at Haylie House have been submitted to the council.

Munro architects have told planners the eight-bedroom unit has been designed with residents in mind and utilises many recommendations made by experts.

In a report to the council, the architect said the current provision of accommodation is unsuitable and would be transformed by the proposals.

It states: “The trustees of Haylie House are committed to providing care for the elderly and the needs of the residents and it is becoming increasingly apparent that dementia sufferers require a more sympathetic environment to cater for the various disabilities associated with dementia.” The report says an estimated 64% of people living in care homes have some form of dementia.

“It is therefore proposed to build a unit designed to the required criteria advocated by the Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC) at Stirling University to achieve their “gold standard” for the completed development.” “Recommendations made by the DSDC include access to outdoor areas and sunlight, stimulation and activity such as light gardening and watching other activities.

“The residents shall also have access to a small patio/seating area which shall benefit from the morning sun. DSDC recommend that dementia sufferers gain unrestricted access to the open air with the benefits of exposure to ultraviolet light with resulting increase in levels of vitamin D.

“Dementia sufferers can benefit and be stimulated from watching activities and movement rather than being confined indoors.

“There is a viewing area to allow residents to enjoy the view and also watch the regular crossings of the Calmac Largs-Cumbrae ferry. This vantage point also allows residents to watch visitors and staff and delivery vehicles arriving and departing from Haylie House.

“A glazed canopy adjacent to the dining room and dayroom and a gazebo provide shelter during inclement weather but still allow residents to feel fresh air on their faces.

“The viewing area also allows residents to take advantage of the spectacular vistas. The provision of some raised planters at the patio areas will allow residents to carry out gardening tasks if they wish to do so.”