Airlie House, Kintore

Airlie House is located in Kintore and is one of two schemes within the town. The scheme has 6 linked cottages and 18 flats split across 2 levels.

The average overall occupancy rate at the scheme was 97%, and has been consistently around this level. Letting properties in the scheme can sometimes be challenging, as the demand for Kintore is split between 2 schemes.

Airlie House faces a significant challenge financially, with a negative NPV of around -£1.8 million. In the case of Airlie House, this is mainly driven by the cost of future investment required at the scheme. The high occupancy rate here means that lost income due to vacancies is not such a concern at this scheme.

Kintore contains a GP surgery and pharmacy, and some shops and cafes are available within walking distance of the scheme. Public transport is accessible from the scheme, although services may not be sufficient to support all tenant needs. The scheme itself is located on a hill, which may present challenges for tenants with mobility issues.

The main driver for considering the closure of the scheme is the level of financial subsidy from other tenants that will be required in future.

Airlie House is located in Kintore and is one of two schemes within the town. The scheme has 6 linked cottages and 18 flats split across 2 levels.

The main driver for considering the closure of the scheme is the level of financial subsidy from other tenants that will be required in future.

Questions

CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

Question 1 - Why are some scheme low demand?

Answer 1:Some of the reasons for low demand are due to the rural nature of the scheme and lack of local services available e.g. shops, no public transport. Some low demand are due to the nature of the property e.g. bedsit or small flat. The current choice based letting system will be advertising current properties, so people can bid for them. If they have been advertised and there is still no interest in some locations we have worked with community council's to advertise these properties, there are posters placed in communities, and the Options and Homelessness team (who manage applications/allocations) will contact individuals on the waiting list to ask them if they want to take a property that is low demand.

Question 2 - If the scheme is approved to close how long will it take to move tenants out?

Answer 2 : There will be personalised support available to tenants to support them with choice or property based on need and preference, we acknowledge it will take several months if not years to support tenants to move to alternative accommodation, and we want to reassure tenants there is no time limit to move.

Share The current situation within SH has not happened overnight, can you please explain why the SH management and the Communities Committee have allowed the situation to get so bad that the only way they think to rectify the it is by forcing people out of their homes, stripping them of their friends, communities and the safety and security they used to have before this bombshell was landed on them. on Facebook Share The current situation within SH has not happened overnight, can you please explain why the SH management and the Communities Committee have allowed the situation to get so bad that the only way they think to rectify the it is by forcing people out of their homes, stripping them of their friends, communities and the safety and security they used to have before this bombshell was landed on them. on Twitter Share The current situation within SH has not happened overnight, can you please explain why the SH management and the Communities Committee have allowed the situation to get so bad that the only way they think to rectify the it is by forcing people out of their homes, stripping them of their friends, communities and the safety and security they used to have before this bombshell was landed on them. on Linkedin Email The current situation within SH has not happened overnight, can you please explain why the SH management and the Communities Committee have allowed the situation to get so bad that the only way they think to rectify the it is by forcing people out of their homes, stripping them of their friends, communities and the safety and security they used to have before this bombshell was landed on them. link

The current situation within SH has not happened overnight, can you please explain why the SH management and the Communities Committee have allowed the situation to get so bad that the only way they think to rectify the it is by forcing people out of their homes, stripping them of their friends, communities and the safety and security they used to have before this bombshell was landed on them.

CJL29 asked 7 days ago

We fully understand the strength of feeling around the current proposals and the deep concern about the potential impact on tenants and their communities. These are not easy conversations, and we want to respond openly and honestly.
It is true that the challenges facing Sheltered Housing have not emerged overnight. The service has been under review since 2018 because it was clear that it was not financially sustainable in its current form. Since then, the situation has worsened due to rising costs for capital upgrades and a decline in demand—particularly following the pandemic. These pressures have brought us to a point where difficult decisions must be considered to protect the long-term future of housing services for all tenants.
We want to be clear: no decision has been made to close any scheme at this stage. Proposals are still under consideration and will only proceed following a decision by the Communities Committee. If any changes are approved, they will be managed with care, and tenants will receive extensive support throughout the process.
While we acknowledge that some individuals may disagree with the proposals or the process, we are confident that the consultation has been thorough and fair. We remain focused on ensuring that any decisions made are based on evidence, financial sustainability, and the long-term well-being of all tenants.
Our goal is not to “force” anyone out of their home, but to ensure that we can continue to provide safe, appropriate, and sustainable housing for older people across Aberdeenshire. We remain committed to working with tenants and communities to explore all viable options and to support those affected with dignity and respect.
Share In my question below I asked about laundry facilities for the people in the six cottages. The response is ridiculous. Apparently people at the council think it is reasonable and realistic for elderly, sick and disabled tenants to walk the third to half a mile, carrying their laundry, to Provost Lawrence Court. Once there, assuming a washing machine is available, they are to hang about for a couple of hours to then face the walk back home. And they will have to do this in all weathers including when there is snow and ice underfoot. The council should be taking a long hard look at the response they give because this one is unreasonable. on Facebook Share In my question below I asked about laundry facilities for the people in the six cottages. The response is ridiculous. Apparently people at the council think it is reasonable and realistic for elderly, sick and disabled tenants to walk the third to half a mile, carrying their laundry, to Provost Lawrence Court. Once there, assuming a washing machine is available, they are to hang about for a couple of hours to then face the walk back home. And they will have to do this in all weathers including when there is snow and ice underfoot. The council should be taking a long hard look at the response they give because this one is unreasonable. on Twitter Share In my question below I asked about laundry facilities for the people in the six cottages. The response is ridiculous. Apparently people at the council think it is reasonable and realistic for elderly, sick and disabled tenants to walk the third to half a mile, carrying their laundry, to Provost Lawrence Court. Once there, assuming a washing machine is available, they are to hang about for a couple of hours to then face the walk back home. And they will have to do this in all weathers including when there is snow and ice underfoot. The council should be taking a long hard look at the response they give because this one is unreasonable. on Linkedin Email In my question below I asked about laundry facilities for the people in the six cottages. The response is ridiculous. Apparently people at the council think it is reasonable and realistic for elderly, sick and disabled tenants to walk the third to half a mile, carrying their laundry, to Provost Lawrence Court. Once there, assuming a washing machine is available, they are to hang about for a couple of hours to then face the walk back home. And they will have to do this in all weathers including when there is snow and ice underfoot. The council should be taking a long hard look at the response they give because this one is unreasonable. link

In my question below I asked about laundry facilities for the people in the six cottages. The response is ridiculous. Apparently people at the council think it is reasonable and realistic for elderly, sick and disabled tenants to walk the third to half a mile, carrying their laundry, to Provost Lawrence Court. Once there, assuming a washing machine is available, they are to hang about for a couple of hours to then face the walk back home. And they will have to do this in all weathers including when there is snow and ice underfoot. The council should be taking a long hard look at the response they give because this one is unreasonable.

CJL29 asked 12 days ago

We would like to clarify that at no point was it stated that tenants would be expected to carry laundry to Provost Laurence Court. The original communication noted: “Tenants living in the cottages will still be able to access all facilities at the nearby Provost Laurence Court in Kintore... People on low incomes can apply for community care grants for assistance with purchasing their own washing machine.” It’s also important to note that some tenants in the cottages are already equipped with washing machines.
For any tenants affected by a scheme closure, individual discussions would be held to understand the impact and to ensure appropriate support is provided.
Share The residents living in the cottages have been told that they will not need to move. But if the main building closes how can these residents continue to live in their cottages. Their access to the communal lounge and kitchen will cease along with all social activities when their friends and neighbours are forced to move. They will also lose access to the communal laundry and bin room. Are the council going to provide these tenants with washing machines and what about tumble dryers? Where in their small kitchens are you going to fit these in or do you expect the tenants to buy their own and what if they haven’t got the money? Who is going to put their bins out and return them, people who have mobility issues will not be able to do this for themselves. Are the cottages going to become, by default, General Housing? Thus releasing the council from any responsibility they have at present when these cottages are part of Sheltered Housing? If they will still be considered as part of the SH remit how are these tenants going to get any benefit as their safety and security will disappear along with their neighbours? Six cottages next to an empty building does not scream safety. The empty building will be a magnet for teenagers and undesirables and will cause untold amounts of anxiety and stress. Not the safety and security that SH promises. As all tenants have already been assessed as needing SH how can you even consider leaving vulnerable people in such a situation? on Facebook Share The residents living in the cottages have been told that they will not need to move. But if the main building closes how can these residents continue to live in their cottages. Their access to the communal lounge and kitchen will cease along with all social activities when their friends and neighbours are forced to move. They will also lose access to the communal laundry and bin room. Are the council going to provide these tenants with washing machines and what about tumble dryers? Where in their small kitchens are you going to fit these in or do you expect the tenants to buy their own and what if they haven’t got the money? Who is going to put their bins out and return them, people who have mobility issues will not be able to do this for themselves. Are the cottages going to become, by default, General Housing? Thus releasing the council from any responsibility they have at present when these cottages are part of Sheltered Housing? If they will still be considered as part of the SH remit how are these tenants going to get any benefit as their safety and security will disappear along with their neighbours? Six cottages next to an empty building does not scream safety. The empty building will be a magnet for teenagers and undesirables and will cause untold amounts of anxiety and stress. Not the safety and security that SH promises. As all tenants have already been assessed as needing SH how can you even consider leaving vulnerable people in such a situation? on Twitter Share The residents living in the cottages have been told that they will not need to move. But if the main building closes how can these residents continue to live in their cottages. Their access to the communal lounge and kitchen will cease along with all social activities when their friends and neighbours are forced to move. They will also lose access to the communal laundry and bin room. Are the council going to provide these tenants with washing machines and what about tumble dryers? Where in their small kitchens are you going to fit these in or do you expect the tenants to buy their own and what if they haven’t got the money? Who is going to put their bins out and return them, people who have mobility issues will not be able to do this for themselves. Are the cottages going to become, by default, General Housing? Thus releasing the council from any responsibility they have at present when these cottages are part of Sheltered Housing? If they will still be considered as part of the SH remit how are these tenants going to get any benefit as their safety and security will disappear along with their neighbours? Six cottages next to an empty building does not scream safety. The empty building will be a magnet for teenagers and undesirables and will cause untold amounts of anxiety and stress. Not the safety and security that SH promises. As all tenants have already been assessed as needing SH how can you even consider leaving vulnerable people in such a situation? on Linkedin Email The residents living in the cottages have been told that they will not need to move. But if the main building closes how can these residents continue to live in their cottages. Their access to the communal lounge and kitchen will cease along with all social activities when their friends and neighbours are forced to move. They will also lose access to the communal laundry and bin room. Are the council going to provide these tenants with washing machines and what about tumble dryers? Where in their small kitchens are you going to fit these in or do you expect the tenants to buy their own and what if they haven’t got the money? Who is going to put their bins out and return them, people who have mobility issues will not be able to do this for themselves. Are the cottages going to become, by default, General Housing? Thus releasing the council from any responsibility they have at present when these cottages are part of Sheltered Housing? If they will still be considered as part of the SH remit how are these tenants going to get any benefit as their safety and security will disappear along with their neighbours? Six cottages next to an empty building does not scream safety. The empty building will be a magnet for teenagers and undesirables and will cause untold amounts of anxiety and stress. Not the safety and security that SH promises. As all tenants have already been assessed as needing SH how can you even consider leaving vulnerable people in such a situation? link

The residents living in the cottages have been told that they will not need to move. But if the main building closes how can these residents continue to live in their cottages. Their access to the communal lounge and kitchen will cease along with all social activities when their friends and neighbours are forced to move. They will also lose access to the communal laundry and bin room. Are the council going to provide these tenants with washing machines and what about tumble dryers? Where in their small kitchens are you going to fit these in or do you expect the tenants to buy their own and what if they haven’t got the money? Who is going to put their bins out and return them, people who have mobility issues will not be able to do this for themselves. Are the cottages going to become, by default, General Housing? Thus releasing the council from any responsibility they have at present when these cottages are part of Sheltered Housing? If they will still be considered as part of the SH remit how are these tenants going to get any benefit as their safety and security will disappear along with their neighbours? Six cottages next to an empty building does not scream safety. The empty building will be a magnet for teenagers and undesirables and will cause untold amounts of anxiety and stress. Not the safety and security that SH promises. As all tenants have already been assessed as needing SH how can you even consider leaving vulnerable people in such a situation?

CJL29 asked 12 days ago

All cottages will remain designated as Sheltered Housing. Should a decision be made to close Airlie House, tenants living in the cottages will still be able to access all facilities at the nearby Provost Laurence Court in Kintore. If tenants require assistance with bins they can request this specifically through Wasteline to arrange assisted collection. People on low incomes can apply for community care grants for assistance with purchasing their own washing machine.
If the closure of Airlie House proceeds, the process of identifying suitable alternative accommodation for its tenants will take several months, potentially even years, and will be managed with care and without urgency. Tenants will continue to have the option to connect with services at Provost Laurence Court or, if preferred, to relocate to a flat within that scheme.
As no final decision has been made regarding the future of Airlie House, no alternative use for the building has been identified at this stage. However, it remains a requirement of the Housing Revenue Account to ensure that any future use of the property delivers best value for tenants. We take your concerns about safety very seriously. If the main building becomes vacant, we will work closely with community safety teams to ensure it is secured and monitored to prevent anti-social behaviour.
Share If the residents are under the Scottish secure tenancy agreement how do you propose to remove them if they wish to stay in the facility.? I have already asked my MSP/MP and various departments within the Scottish government the same question. Your reply would be appreciated. Kind Regards Derek McGillivray. on Facebook Share If the residents are under the Scottish secure tenancy agreement how do you propose to remove them if they wish to stay in the facility.? I have already asked my MSP/MP and various departments within the Scottish government the same question. Your reply would be appreciated. Kind Regards Derek McGillivray. on Twitter Share If the residents are under the Scottish secure tenancy agreement how do you propose to remove them if they wish to stay in the facility.? I have already asked my MSP/MP and various departments within the Scottish government the same question. Your reply would be appreciated. Kind Regards Derek McGillivray. on Linkedin Email If the residents are under the Scottish secure tenancy agreement how do you propose to remove them if they wish to stay in the facility.? I have already asked my MSP/MP and various departments within the Scottish government the same question. Your reply would be appreciated. Kind Regards Derek McGillivray. link

If the residents are under the Scottish secure tenancy agreement how do you propose to remove them if they wish to stay in the facility.? I have already asked my MSP/MP and various departments within the Scottish government the same question. Your reply would be appreciated. Kind Regards Derek McGillivray.

Pamcgoo100 asked about 1 month ago
Thank you for your enquiry.
We understand your concerns and appreciate you taking the time to raise this important question.
Residents living under a Scottish Secure Tenancy (SST) have strong legal protections, and any proposal to end such a tenancy must follow the procedures set out in the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001. A Scottish Secure Tenancy can only be brought to an end in specific circumstances, such as:
- By mutual written agreement between the tenant and landlord;
- If the tenant gives four weeks’ written notice;
- Through a court order granted on specific legal grounds (e.g. if the property is due to be redeveloped or no longer suitable for supported living needs)
  1
  .
If a resident wishes to remain in their current accommodation, and no mutual agreement is reached, the landlord would need to apply to the court for possession. The court would consider the individual circumstances of the tenant, including their wellbeing and housing needs, before making any decision.
We are committed to handling this process with sensitivity and in full compliance with legal obligations. The ongoing consultation period, open until 16th June, is an opportunity for all views to be considered before any decisions are made.

Page last updated: 19 Jun 2025, 08:59 AM

Airlie House, Kintore

Key Dates