Tain, Scotland’s oldest burgh, is an increasingly popular place to live and the demand for new housing is rising. Development is underway to meet this need, particularly on the slopes to the west of the historic town, where homes enjoy stunning views of the Dornoch Firth, a very short drive to the town centre and easy access to local schools.
David and Morven Moir moved into their new home, built and owned by Invergordon-based Albyn Housing Society, with their two children Georgia (10) and Charlie (2) just in time for Christmas. Moving to Juniper Drive has dramatically improved their quality of life.
Due to David’s disability he requires a specially adapted bathroom and a house without stairs. By working with the Albyn team throughout the design process he ensured this was possible whilst still having plenty of room for his young family.
Before they were referred to Albyn Housing Society through the Highland Housing Register (HHR) the recently married couple lived in separate homes, David in Tain and Morven in Alness. When they applied for a home through the HHR their priority need for a custom-built house was identified and they soon became involved in the design of their home on Juniper Drive.
David, who works as a data manager at Blythswood in Invergordon, explained the difference it has made to the family: “In the months before we moved into our new house the four of us were living in my one bedroom flat, which was chaos! We now have four bedrooms and plenty of space and the adapted bathroom makes a huge difference to my everyday life. Having a carport is also great as it means I’m in less danger of slipping getting in and out of my car.
“We’re delighted with our new home and will definitely be here for many years to come.”
Donald Lockhart, Development Director at Albyn Housing Society, said: “It’s pleasing to know that, thanks to Scottish Government funding and the excellent partnership we have with Highland Council in delivering projects like this, we can deliver truly beneficial outcomes as we seem to have done for David and Morven. There are two custom designed houses in this development of 30 homes for rent and low cost sale and, despite the current financial constraints, we will continue to work with our partners to secure funding to build more homes for people with particular needs for whom a specially adapted home will make a real difference to their lives.”
