Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP Karen Adam slams Aberdeenshire Council’s decision to close sheltered housing complexes
A MSP has condemned a local authority’s decision to close sheltered housing complexes.
Aberdeenshire Council announced that Burnside Court in Portsoy, Albany Court in Fraserburgh, Malcolm Forbes Court in Rosehearty and Raynard Court in St Fergus are all set to close as part of its review of sheltered housing provision.
MSP for Banffshire and Buchan Coast Karen Adam has expressed fury at the decision and the manner in which it was handled.
She said: “I’m absolutely furious that the Conservative-led Aberdeenshire Council has voted to close four sheltered housing complexes in Banffshire and Buchan Coast. Make it known though that not one SNP councillor voted to close any of the facilities.
“Albany Court in Fraserburgh, Burnside Court in Portsoy, Malcolm Forbes Court in Rosehearty, and Raynard Court in St Fergus are all now facing closure.
“These are homes, not just buildings, and I’ve visited some of the residents who are now left heartbroken, confused and afraid for what comes next.
“The way this decision was communicated to elderly and vulnerable residents was nothing short of disgraceful.
“No proper consideration was given to those with sensory impairments, cognitive decline or mobility issues.
“I witnessed firsthand the visible distress in some of these complexes. People were crying, people were anxious and all for a decision that should never have been made in the first place.
“It’s not just poor communication. It’s a complete failure in care, dignity, and duty.
“I’m glad to see that Invercairn Court in Cairnbulg and Gamrie Bay Court in Gardenstown have been saved and I know how much that will mean to those communities.
“Community living should be our future, a positive solution that offers safety, connection and wellbeing for older people.
“Instead of closing these homes, we should be upgrading them and investing in transport and support.
“I’ll be continuing to visit residents this summer, and if you or someone you know wants to speak with me about the closures or arrange a visit, just reach out.
“I’m here to listen, to support and to fight alongside you. This decision is a backward step.
“I’ll be keeping a close eye on the council’s next steps, but one thing’s for sure, I won’t stop fighting to protect our elderly and vulnerable from being made homeless.”
Ms Adam has vowed to maintain pressure on Aberdeenshire Council to reconsider its plans and to ensure that vulnerable residents are fully supported and heard during this process.