A new affordable housing development by Albyn Housing Society for the elderly in Nethybridge is set to welcome its first residents.
The Invergordon-based housing association was assisted by a donation of £250,000 from the Abbeyfield Society, a not-for-profit organisation that exists to help the elderly live independently, providing towards the provision of affordable housing for the elderly. Thanks to this input, Albyn invested in additional measures to maximise the energy efficiency and sense of community of these homes. This included a super-insulated structure, environmentally friendly air source heat pumps, and a community space with stone walling around the 13 new homes.
The project was also supported by a £900,000 Housing Association Grant provided by the Scottish Government which went a long way to ensure the houses would be suitable for the elderly or disabled.
The development includes nine properties to rent, all of which have allocated owners and four are being marketed for sale under the LIFT Scheme.
Speaking of the project, Calum Macaulay, chief executive of Albyn Housing Society, said: “We are delighted to have completed this quality development and have worked hard to ensure our elderly tenants can enjoy a sense of security and community in the attractive courtyard layout.
“Albyn gave a commitment to provide housing the community could regard as an asset for years to come. Nethybridge is the perfect setting to enjoy the countryside of the glorious Highlands and we wish our new tenants and shared equity owners every happiness in their new homes.”
Housing and Communities Minister, Alex Neil, said: “The Scottish Government has invested £900,000 in this development, which will make a big difference to the quality of life of the elderly residents.
“Albyn Housing Society and its partners are to be congratulated for spearheading this development.
“We want our elderly citizens to live as independently as possible in the community, either in their own home, sheltered housing or other forms of supported accommodation.”
Freda Grant from Abbeyfield, said: “It’s great to see the project in Nethybridge coming to fruition.
“I would like to thank Albyn and their partners for delivering an attractive and well designed development which will be economical to run for all its residents. One of the main aims of Abbeyfield is to encourage companionship and it is good to see many of the new residents getting to know their neighbours.”
For more information about the LIFT properties still for sale within the development, please email info@albyn-enterprises.co.uk or call 01463 259895.
