Housing provider Bield has transformed a closed care home in Linlithgow into six one-bedroom flats following a £635,000 investment.
The project, backed by Scottish Government grant funding, has brought a vacant space back into use and expanded the West Port development to 37 properties.
It forms part of a nationwide programme by the organisation to upgrade facilities, with similar works recently finished in Cumnock and Perth.
The latest redevelopment aligns with a newly launched strategy to integrate technology and improve communal spaces for older residents.
The Linlithgow site now features accessible housing and communal areas designed to accommodate the changing requirements of older individuals. Residents at West Port have access to a 24-hour digital alarm monitoring service, known as BR24, as well as designated areas for social interaction.
The provider used an event at the site to outline its Roadmap for Independent Living, a strategy introduced in 2025. This framework focuses on building homes suited for long-term use, integrating practical technology, establishing community connections, and aligning different support systems. As part of this approach, the organisation operates Community Cafés, which function as social hubs where individuals can engage in activities and build networks.
During the presentation in West Port, attendees were introduced to the Technology Enabled Care Services Association’s Virtual Home platform. This immersive learning tool enables users to test various technologies and evaluate how they might assist people in maintaining their independence at home.
Information gathered from the Virtual Home platform will be used by the provider to select specific technologies that could be implemented across its properties. The event also covered details regarding the organisation’s meal service and the role of tenant participation in shaping the facilities.
Drew Moore, Director of Assets at Bield, addressed attendees regarding the changes made to the West Port site.
He said: “West Port demonstrates what can be achieved when we invest in existing buildings and work collaboratively to create high-quality homes that meet the needs of older people.
“Alongside the six new flats, we have improved communal areas within the wider development, creating welcoming spaces where tenants can feel safe, maintain their independence and connect with others.
“This is part of our wider commitment to transforming existing properties into attractive, modern homes, with significant refurbishment works completed in Cumnock and Perth and further investment planned across our developments.
“Our focus is on creating homes designed for life, supported by technology, connected communities and services that work together to help people live independently for as long as possible.”
Paul Edie, Chair of Bield’s Board, also spoke at the gathering in Linlithgow, which was attended by representatives from West Lothian Council, contractor McConnell, and architects Smith Scott Mullan.
He added: “West Port shows the value of turning unused spaces into high-quality homes while maintaining the welcoming community that makes a development special.
“The shared spaces and opportunities to socialise help tenants stay connected while enjoying their independence. Thank you to everyone who has worked so hard to make this project possible.”
The provider has confirmed it intends to continue upgrading its existing housing stock, aiming to repurpose other unused properties across Scotland.
Future projects include the planned redevelopment of Dean Court in Bo’ness, which was originally the organisation’s first property. The Bo’ness site will be modernised to align with the current focus on independent living.
