Island care centre moves a step closer

A flagship new progressive care centre to serve the people of Mull and Iona moved a step closer today. Argyll and Bute councillors have approved the Council’s contribution of more than £1.2 million towards the long-awaited scheme – £845,444 from the Social Work Capital Programme and £356,000 from the Strategic Housing Fund.

The money will go towards the new £8million Mull and Iona Progressive Care Centre in Craignure, which will replace the ageing Dunaros Residential Care Centre and Salen Hospital with progressive care housing and a purpose-built hospital facility.

The scheme marks a groundbreaking partnership between Argyll and Bute Council, NHS Highland, the Scottish Government’s Housing Investment Division, West Highland Housing Association and the Mull and Iona Progressive Care Centre Company.

Argyll and Bute’s Social Services spokesperson, Councillor Donald McIntosh, said he was delighted that the Council had approved the funding.

“This project marks the culmination of many years of joint working between all partners,” he added.

“Once completed, this facility will provide first class supported housing and hospital facilities for the people of Mull and Iona.

“In offering 12 individual supported tenancies and a modern hospital, together with a range of other health facilities, it promises to be an enormous improvement on the current outdated provision.”

Councillor George Freeman, Spokesperson for Housing and Communities, said: “I am delighted that the Council’s contribution from the Strategic Housing Fund has allowed the much-needed housing element of this project to progress. At the same time, it will provide employment and training opportunities to local tradesmen.

“This promises to be a state of the art facility, which will make a real difference to the lives of those who will use it in the future.

“I very much look forward to following the progress of this exciting project through its construction phase, and hope to be able to visit its first residents towards the end of next year.”

Mull-based Councillor Mary Jean Devon said, “It is wonderful news to hear that the much needed Mull and Iona Progressive Care Centre has moved a step closer today.

“This centre will have a very real and positive effect for the people of Mull and Iona and I am absolutely delighted at today’s outcome.”

NHS Highland’s Board is due to discuss a report on its funding contribution to the scheme on February 2.

If all necessary approvals are granted, it is envisaged that the building work will start in the Spring. The construction is likely to take some 18 months.