One of the streets in the new development at Ayrshire Central Hospital – which is now under construction – will be called Braille Gardens.

It honours the 200th anniversary of Frenchman Louis Braille’s creation of the writing system used by people who are visually impaired.

At last week’s groundbreaking ceremony for the new homes, one of the guests was James Adams, director of the Royal National Institute of Blind People Scotland.

Mr Adams said: “The naming of Braille Gardens is a wonderful tribute to Louis Braille’s pioneering invention, which continues to empower blind and partially sighted people. 

“Braille is more than just a format to read and write; it is a lifeline to independence, privacy, education, and opportunity. As we celebrate the 200th anniversary of braille, it is fitting to see its legacy honoured in a way that fosters inclusion and accessibility within our community.”

The street name was approved by Irvine’s Locality Partnership and its chair, Councillor Shaun Macaulay, said: “It’s fitting that as we build 200 new modern, accessible council homes for our tenants we celebrate the 200th anniversary of a major advancement for those who are visually impaired.

“Braille remains a crucial tool which fosters inclusivity and equal opportunities for people everywhere. This life-changing innovation is recognised in the naming of one of our streets.”

Braille Gardens will form one part of the new development on the former site of the maternity unit at Ayrshire Central Hospital, Irvine.

The £50 million development – supported by £24m Scottish Government grant - will see a mix of general needs houses, amenity bungalows and homes suitable for wheelchair users. With work now underway, it is currently expected that all homes will be completed by summer 2027.

In addition to Braille Gardens, the other streets within the new council house development will be Belvedere Road, Reid Place, Crow Wood Green, Redburnbridge Crescent, Ferguson Wynd, Andross Street, Castlepark Circle and Conway Avenue.