Downpatrick housing scheme bids for award

Downpatrick housing scheme bids for award

23 May 2012

A NEW supported housing scheme for people with dementia in Downpatrick is in contention for a major award.

Cedar Court, which is expected to open later this year, has been constructed on the site of the former Appletree House Children’s Home in Bridge Street.

The development is being spearheaded by Trinity Housing and is supported by the South Eastern Trust, Housing Executive and the Department for Social Development.

The new building has been designed to meet the accommodation needs of senior citizens, including those with dementia and the frail elderly and will provide accommodation for up to 25 people.

The accommodation for residents with dementia is located on the ground floor, arranged around secure courtyard gardens and terraces.

Internally, the building is designed to allow residents to maintain independent living within self-contained apartment accommodation but in an environment designed to stimulate social interaction in order to maximise well-being.

There are also communal facilities and both internal and external spaces that cater for a diverse range of organised leisure and recreational activities. The apartments provided for the frail elderly are located on the upper floors.

The building has been designed by McCartan Muldoon Architects and the finishing touches are currently being out to it.

Cedar Court has been shortlisted for a National Housing Award 2012, via the Chartered Institute of Housing, with the winners announced at a ceremony in London on June 17 at the Hilton Hotel.