NEW sheltered housing in Largs will form a significant part of investment plans by North Ayrshire Council.

The council says it is set to invest millions of pounds into improving homes for residents and 'breathe new life into local communities'.

Largs former police station will form part of a new housing development in the area after being purchased by the local authority.

The site on School Street was snapped up for £175,000 and will be used in phase two of the future St Colms Place development.

The council's planned investment starting in 2021/22 includes the launch of a £25m sheltered housing re-provisioning programme, at least £5m investment in regeneration projects and sustainability measures to reduce fuel poverty.

In addition, more than £15 million will be invested into improving existing council homes with plans for over 300 new bathrooms, more than 400 new kitchens, over 1,000 external door replacements and more than 500 new boiler installations.

Plans for next year are already well advanced and consultation on rent levels is now underway, giving tenants a chance to have their say.

Proposals for an increase will help pay for a programme of improvements across the council's housing estate.

Councillor Jim Montgomerie, Cabinet Member for Green New Deal and Sustainability, said: “We’re proud of the housing service we deliver and the value for money our tenants get.

“Our last Tenant Satisfaction Survey showed that more than 92 per cent of our tenants consider that their rent represents value for money.

“Despite this, we are delivering on our ambitious plans in place to build more than 1,500 new council homes across North Ayrshire as well as investing millions in our existing houses, giving tenants the types of homes they want to live in.”

Council tenants are currently being consulted on proposed rent levels for next year and can express their preference for one of two options – a 1.9 per cent increase or a 2.5 per cent increase.

Although both options will help deliver a major investment in the council house programme, the second option will mean that an additional £5 million could be utilised to help reduce tenants’ fuel bills, such as additional insulation, solar PV panels and more efficient heating systems.

Tenants who are experiencing difficulties in meeting their rent should contact North Ayrshire Council’s Welfare Reform Advice Team via welfarereformteam@north-ayrshire.gov.uk or call 0300 999 4606.