A new approach to giving looked after young people in Angus a better quality of life has been signalled with the official opening of Bramble Cottages in Arbroath.
The eight-bed accommodation, spread between two houses with open-plan kitchens, living areas and breakout zones, was opened by Deputy Provost Alex King and Councillor Sheena Welsh, the council’s children and learning convener.
They said Bramble Cottages was designed with young people and partner agencies to develop a purpose-built residence that replaced the “dark” four-bed unit at Kinnaird Street in Arbroath.
Mrs Welsh said the former housing had “outlived its time.”
She said: “I think the quality of the workmanship and the finish of these homes is tangible proof of how serious Angus Council takes its corporate parenting responsibilities.
“We want to do the best we can for our looked after young people. Our previous residential unit in Kinnaird Street was just that a residential unit.
“It was a dark, converted tenement and it had outlived its time.
“Our ideas of how to care properly for our young people have moved on from the days Kinnaird Street served its purpose.
“Angus Council has also made a considerable investment in staff bricks and mortar are important but it’s the people who build the relationships.”
The housing is bramble-themed throughout, with artwork by Dundee artist Suzanne Scott, who designed the bronze Discovery Walk plaques, among other commissions.
Signing a commemorative picture by Ms Scott, Councillor King switched on the Christmas lights and welcomed new residents including Rheanne Ferguson.
Mr King said: “This has been an exciting and ambitious project for our young people in Angus.
“Bramble Cottages aims to help young people achieve their ambitions while maintaining links with their families and local community.
“Today’s opening of the Brambles is the culmination of six years of hard work.
“These two cottages double the capacity we have in Angus to support our children and young people locally, which will hopefully mean more of our children can remain in Angus rather than having to live elsewhere.”
Photo by Angus Pictures