Irvine Housing Association is pleased to announce the official opening of its new-build development at Thornhouse Court, Irvine.
Brian Donohoe MP and Irene Oldfather MSP, officially opened the development by the cutting of a ribbon on 27 June 2008. North Ayrshire Council’s Depute Provost, Ian Clarkson and the Association’s Chairman, Tommy Farrell JP assisted.
The event was attended by Irvine Housing Association’s Board Members and staff together with officials from various organisations including the Scottish Government’s Housing and Regeneration Directive, North Ayrshire Council, other local housing associations, Robert Potter and Partners Architects, Ashleigh Construction Ltd and the new residents of Thornhouse Court.
Work began on the Brownfield site in November 2006. The aim of the Association’s development was to bring much needed high quality affordable accommodation to the heart of Irvine. The Association delivered this by building 26 houses that reflect the current style and trend seen in many new build properties today. Of the 26 houses there are 17 two-bedroom and 9 three-bedroom general needs. The properties themselves offer spacious accommodation that is light and airy and would suit young families.
Brian Donohoe and Irene Oldfather met some of the new residents within the development and visited Mrs O’ Hanlon in her new home.
Mrs O’ Hanlon said: “I am delighted with my new home. It is such a pleasant street and the neighbours are great. My Mum lives just around the corner so it is really handy. The location is brilliant as we are so close to the town centre and the shops.”
Brian Donohoe said: “Having passed the site over a great number of years, I am delighted to be opening the newly developed Thornhouse Court. This development is a valuable boost to affordable housing provision in the town centre. The Association have once again shown the level and quality of the work that they can produce. A previously derelict area has been revitalised.”
Irene Oldfather said: “It is a privilege to be associated with this project that will see 26 new homes in Irvine available for rent. In recent years access to more housing stock has become a priority in North Ayrshire and these homes will make a significant contribution to meeting this need. Thornhouse Court demonstrates a commitment by Irvine Housing Association to provide local families with high quality and affordable housing. I look forward to their continuing programme, in particular the future development planned for Tarryholme."
Depute Provost Ian Clarkson said: "The development of Thornhouse Court has regenerated the area. To see the derelict site of the former gas works transformed to its present condition is wonderful and a tribute to Irvine Housing Association."
Tommy Farrell said: “The Association is delighted with these new properties and the positive response that has been received from new tenants such as Mrs O’ Hanlon. From seeing the project in its first stages to viewing the final development, I am amazed at the quality of the houses. This is a first-class development and a credit to all those involved.”
The new development cost approximately £2.9 million and was completed within programme. The houses have also been designed to the Secure By Design standard. Robert Potters and Partners were the appointed design team for the project, whilst Ashleigh Construction Ltd were the main contractor.
