Charity on cloud nine as doors open at Cumulus Heights

Charity on cloud nine as doors open at Cumulus Heights

19 August 2015

THE doors of a new multi-million pound development in Downpatrick for people with a learning disability were thrown open to the public last weekend.

The Mainstay DRP charity has developed a three acre site at the Killough Road which will be known as Cumulus Heights, an ultra-modern facility providing valuable services for people with a learning disability and their families.

Cumulus Heights, which features stunning views towards the Mournes, features two residential homes, day care services, two respite services and a training and administrative centre.

Mainstay DRP says these particular services are critical for many local families who are often struggling to balance the challenges of everyday life.

The new Killough Road development is designed to provide a lifeline to people and their families, in particular those who are growing older.

Last weekend’s open day came after years of hard work by fundraisers across the district and the new building will enable Mainstay DRP to provide new services for clients getting older and whose needs are changing.

South Down MP Margaret Ritchie, who attended Saturday’s open day, said she is particularly impressed with the ultra-modern facility.

“This is a new, purpose-built facility which will continue to provide care, supported housing, respite and support to those with learning disabilities and autism. The five new buildings situated at the Killough Road represent the next stage in the development of Mainstay DRP’s  facilities,” she continued.

“These new buildings fulfil the aspirations and ambitions of the founder members of the Down Residential Project who came together in 1989 with one common goal – to create a local service providing high quality care and support their loved ones required, close to their respective family homes. This new facility will continue to provide that local service to those who urgently need support, care and assistance.”

Miss Ritchie also highlighted the importance of Cumulus Heights continuing to be supported by the South Eastern Trust and the Department of Health.

The MP congratulated everyone involved in the multi-million pound project, from those involved at the concept stage, through to those who developed the building through to its construction.

Miss Ritchie added: “Current and past members and staff have shown remarkable foresight, vision and tenacity in developing such a local facility.”