Working in partnership with Scottish Borders Council, 39 spacious new state of the art Extra Care flats will be built by Hart Builders.

The development will begin to fill a gap that is badly needed in the region.

Scotland’s elderly population is growing faster than the rest of the UK, with the Borders seeing a 47% increase over the next 14 years in over 65-year-olds, and 121% increase in over 85-year-olds.

Eildon’s chief executive Nile Istephan said whilst it’s good news that people are living longer, it’s vital housing and support services can meet that demand. 

He added: “Supporting our customers in later life is absolutely key and building these Extra Care flats designed specifically to ensure that tenants can live independently in later life, in a safe and secure environment, is a crucial step forward.

“We want to make sure people have the specialist support they need, and we’ll be working with health and social care partners to make that happen. A major part of that work will be providing services that assist those living with dementia which is a key part of our strategy.”

Andy Mallice, managing director, Hart Builders, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Eildon Housing Association to deliver these new homes in Galashiels. This is the second Extra Care housing development we are building in the Borders to support the council’s Integrated Strategic Plan for Older People’s Housing, Care and Support Needs.

“The 39 self-contained flats will enable older people to live independently for longer, providing residents with high quality, fully accessible homes and sociable communal facilities and amenities.”

To find out more about Eildon’s five-year strategy to deliver inclusive growth across the Borders, click here.