LOREBURN Housing Association has been given the green light to build dementia-friendly housing alongside a “youth foyer” on the site of the former Garrick Hospital in Stranraer.
The plans, designed by Aitken Turnbull Architects, will see the creation of eight one-bed and four two-bed “extra care” homes. The Youth Foyer will be built alongside the homes, offering supported accommodation for up to 12 young people.
Youth Foyers are designed to provide housing, support and training for people aged 16 -25. The Stranraer Foyer will be a first for Dumfries and Galloway and only the second in Scotland. Young people living at the Foyer will be expected to be either in education, apprenticeships, other employment or training, and will have access to volunteering opportunities.
Work is expected to start on site in spring this year and finish in summer 2019.
Lorraine Usher, chief executive at Loreburn Housing Association said, “Our idea to create dementia-friendly accommodation alongside a youth foyer in Stranraer has been on the cards for a long time, so to have got the go-ahead from Dumfries & Galloway Council is really exciting news for the whole community, as this is a development which will bring so many benefits.
“Everyone at Loreburn is delighted and I am especially pleased for development team who have worked hard to bring this project to fruition. By offering shared space which is accessible to grassroots and public bodies alike there is an opportunity to address issues that lead to poor health and wellbeing outcomes for people in the area.
“The Foyer will be there to give a helping hand to young people who are motivated to study or work, and the young people living there will be expected to make a positive contribution to their local communities. All youngsters must be either working, studying or volunteering.
“Loreburn is committed to creating great places to live and great communities for all. As the Foyer will be located right beside the dementia specific accommodation, it will also offer opportunities for intergenerational projects that involve both the young people and older people. This will help reduce social isolation in older people and increase civic participation for young people. Loreburn already has a successful track record of bringing younger and older people together through projects like the Galloway Gateway.”
