Doune Court, Strathdon

Share Doune Court, Strathdon on Facebook Share Doune Court, Strathdon on Twitter Share Doune Court, Strathdon on Linkedin Email Doune Court, Strathdon link

Doune Court is located in Bellabeg, alongside the village of Strathdon. The scheme has 12 Sheltered Housing flats, and the former warden accommodation is attached to the main block.

Overall average occupancy at the scheme over 10 years was 89.1%. This has tended to vary, but there is a general downward trend across the period. Low Demand has been an issue in letting properties in the past, leading to lost income due to vacancies.

Doune Court has a negative Net Present Value of around -£2 million. The main driver of this are the high costs of future investment required at the scheme, although lost income to vacancies is also a challenge.

Bellabeg/Strathdon offers a small post office and convenience store to tenants, but requires tenants to travel to access larger shops. There is a medical centre in Strathdon, although it is some distance from the scheme and may prove challenging for tenants with mobility issues. Public transport options are limited, which could prove challenging for tenants without access to a car.

The main driver for considering the scheme for closure is the high cost of maintaining the scheme in future, which will require substantial subsidy from other tenants.


Doune Court is located in Bellabeg, alongside the village of Strathdon. The scheme has 12 Sheltered Housing flats, and the former warden accommodation is attached to the main block.

Overall average occupancy at the scheme over 10 years was 89.1%. This has tended to vary, but there is a general downward trend across the period. Low Demand has been an issue in letting properties in the past, leading to lost income due to vacancies.

Doune Court has a negative Net Present Value of around -£2 million. The main driver of this are the high costs of future investment required at the scheme, although lost income to vacancies is also a challenge.

Bellabeg/Strathdon offers a small post office and convenience store to tenants, but requires tenants to travel to access larger shops. There is a medical centre in Strathdon, although it is some distance from the scheme and may prove challenging for tenants with mobility issues. Public transport options are limited, which could prove challenging for tenants without access to a car.

The main driver for considering the scheme for closure is the high cost of maintaining the scheme in future, which will require substantial subsidy from other tenants.


CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

Question 1: Are individual houses cheaper to run and manage than Sheltered Housing blocks?

Answer 1: Yes they are, Sheltered Housing schemes have additional components, these require maintenance and upgrades: for central heating/boiler systems, Lifts (although Doune crt doesn't have a lift), emergency lighting/fire suppressant systems, communal areas fixtures and fittings and laundry equipment, in addition there are external areas to maintain and manage.

  • Share 1. The use of a 'waiting list' as criteria for closing down Doune Court is deeply flawed and does not reflect the needs of the community in the future. This was acknowledged verbally by the council at the last consultation in the Lonach Hall and clearly demonstrated by the show of hands of people in the community who would definitly condsider applying to live in Doune Court in the future, including myself. Obviously we are not going to apply to go on a waiting list before we are ready and find ourelves in a position of need. Will the council please document this and acknowledge in writing that a current 'waiting list' should not be used as one of the main criteria for closure of Doune Court? 2. There is an acute lack of alternative housing in Strathdon. Forcibly removing people from a very well supported community at a time of life when we have built up meaninful relationships and have enjoyed -for example-excellent access to GP surgery; participation in the Silver Circle; rich connections with young and old in a community they have lived in for 30, 40 or 50 years is socially destructive and potentially impacts on mental health. We know what we have in this community and it is to be treasured. Please do not destroy this by closing Doune Court. on Facebook Share 1. The use of a 'waiting list' as criteria for closing down Doune Court is deeply flawed and does not reflect the needs of the community in the future. This was acknowledged verbally by the council at the last consultation in the Lonach Hall and clearly demonstrated by the show of hands of people in the community who would definitly condsider applying to live in Doune Court in the future, including myself. Obviously we are not going to apply to go on a waiting list before we are ready and find ourelves in a position of need. Will the council please document this and acknowledge in writing that a current 'waiting list' should not be used as one of the main criteria for closure of Doune Court? 2. There is an acute lack of alternative housing in Strathdon. Forcibly removing people from a very well supported community at a time of life when we have built up meaninful relationships and have enjoyed -for example-excellent access to GP surgery; participation in the Silver Circle; rich connections with young and old in a community they have lived in for 30, 40 or 50 years is socially destructive and potentially impacts on mental health. We know what we have in this community and it is to be treasured. Please do not destroy this by closing Doune Court. on Twitter Share 1. The use of a 'waiting list' as criteria for closing down Doune Court is deeply flawed and does not reflect the needs of the community in the future. This was acknowledged verbally by the council at the last consultation in the Lonach Hall and clearly demonstrated by the show of hands of people in the community who would definitly condsider applying to live in Doune Court in the future, including myself. Obviously we are not going to apply to go on a waiting list before we are ready and find ourelves in a position of need. Will the council please document this and acknowledge in writing that a current 'waiting list' should not be used as one of the main criteria for closure of Doune Court? 2. There is an acute lack of alternative housing in Strathdon. Forcibly removing people from a very well supported community at a time of life when we have built up meaninful relationships and have enjoyed -for example-excellent access to GP surgery; participation in the Silver Circle; rich connections with young and old in a community they have lived in for 30, 40 or 50 years is socially destructive and potentially impacts on mental health. We know what we have in this community and it is to be treasured. Please do not destroy this by closing Doune Court. on Linkedin Email 1. The use of a 'waiting list' as criteria for closing down Doune Court is deeply flawed and does not reflect the needs of the community in the future. This was acknowledged verbally by the council at the last consultation in the Lonach Hall and clearly demonstrated by the show of hands of people in the community who would definitly condsider applying to live in Doune Court in the future, including myself. Obviously we are not going to apply to go on a waiting list before we are ready and find ourelves in a position of need. Will the council please document this and acknowledge in writing that a current 'waiting list' should not be used as one of the main criteria for closure of Doune Court? 2. There is an acute lack of alternative housing in Strathdon. Forcibly removing people from a very well supported community at a time of life when we have built up meaninful relationships and have enjoyed -for example-excellent access to GP surgery; participation in the Silver Circle; rich connections with young and old in a community they have lived in for 30, 40 or 50 years is socially destructive and potentially impacts on mental health. We know what we have in this community and it is to be treasured. Please do not destroy this by closing Doune Court. link

    1. The use of a 'waiting list' as criteria for closing down Doune Court is deeply flawed and does not reflect the needs of the community in the future. This was acknowledged verbally by the council at the last consultation in the Lonach Hall and clearly demonstrated by the show of hands of people in the community who would definitly condsider applying to live in Doune Court in the future, including myself. Obviously we are not going to apply to go on a waiting list before we are ready and find ourelves in a position of need. Will the council please document this and acknowledge in writing that a current 'waiting list' should not be used as one of the main criteria for closure of Doune Court? 2. There is an acute lack of alternative housing in Strathdon. Forcibly removing people from a very well supported community at a time of life when we have built up meaninful relationships and have enjoyed -for example-excellent access to GP surgery; participation in the Silver Circle; rich connections with young and old in a community they have lived in for 30, 40 or 50 years is socially destructive and potentially impacts on mental health. We know what we have in this community and it is to be treasured. Please do not destroy this by closing Doune Court.

    Gill Russell asked 19 days ago

    Thank you for your comments regarding the future of Doune Court and the concerns raised about the use of a waiting list as part of the decision-making process.

    We would like to clarify that the decision was not based on the current waiting list alone. Rather, it was informed by a broader assessment of demand over the past ten years. This included reviewing patterns of applications, occupancy levels, and transfers out of the scheme during that period. We fully acknowledge that many individuals may not join a waiting list until their circumstances change, and we understand that this does not necessarily reflect future interest or need.

    We also recognise the feedback shared during the consultation at Lonach Hall, including the show of hands from community members who expressed a willingness to consider Doune Court in the future. This input is valuable and has been noted as part of the consultation process.

    While the historical demand data was a key factor, it is one of four criteria considered in evaluating the long-term sustainability and suitability of the property, and has been applied to all schemes. We are committed to ensuring that all community feedback is documented and taken into account as part of the final decision.

    Thank you for sharing your heartfelt concerns regarding the potential closure of Doune Court. We fully recognise the deep connections residents have built within the Strathdon community over many decades, and we understand the vital role that local services, social networks, and community groups such as the Silver Circle play in supporting well-being and quality of life.

    We want to reassure you that no final decision has been made regarding the future of Doune Court. The consultation process is ongoing, and all feedback—including yours—is being carefully considered as part of the wider review.

    We acknowledge the importance of maintaining strong community ties, especially for older residents, and we are committed to ensuring that any decisions made reflect not only current housing data but also the lived experiences and values of the people who call Strathdon home.

    We appreciate your engagement and the time you’ve taken to express your views.

  • Share When you have calculated the occupancy rate of Doune Court, have you based your calculations on the 12 sheltered houses, or has it been been on 12 sheltered houses plus the warden premises i.e. on 13 units? on Facebook Share When you have calculated the occupancy rate of Doune Court, have you based your calculations on the 12 sheltered houses, or has it been been on 12 sheltered houses plus the warden premises i.e. on 13 units? on Twitter Share When you have calculated the occupancy rate of Doune Court, have you based your calculations on the 12 sheltered houses, or has it been been on 12 sheltered houses plus the warden premises i.e. on 13 units? on Linkedin Email When you have calculated the occupancy rate of Doune Court, have you based your calculations on the 12 sheltered houses, or has it been been on 12 sheltered houses plus the warden premises i.e. on 13 units? link

    When you have calculated the occupancy rate of Doune Court, have you based your calculations on the 12 sheltered houses, or has it been been on 12 sheltered houses plus the warden premises i.e. on 13 units?

    LILLY asked 27 days ago

    The occupancy calculations have been based on all 13 units, which includes the 12 sheltered housing properties and the former warden’s accommodation. Although the ex-warden’s flat has been void since 2016 and is not part of the active sheltered housing offer, it remains part of the building and continues to have an impact on the overall financial position of the scheme.

    Including this unit in the occupancy calculation is important because:

    • It reflects the true utilisation of the building as a whole
    • Its long-term vacancy contributes to the negative Net Present Value (NPV) of the scheme

    That said, the occupancy pattern over time is driven entirely by the 12 sheltered units, since the warden’s flat has remained consistently unoccupied. Any changes in occupancy rates are therefore reflective of the sheltered housing units alone.

    We believe it is appropriate to include the ex-warden’s accommodation in the overall assessment, as it represents a resource that cannot currently be used, and thus impacts the sustainability of the scheme.

  • Share I know of at least two people who applied to rent the two bedroomed apartment at Doune Court. Why has it remained empty for eight or nine years. We were told at a recent meeting here that it was kept in reserve for emergencies!!!! What emergencies? on Facebook Share I know of at least two people who applied to rent the two bedroomed apartment at Doune Court. Why has it remained empty for eight or nine years. We were told at a recent meeting here that it was kept in reserve for emergencies!!!! What emergencies? on Twitter Share I know of at least two people who applied to rent the two bedroomed apartment at Doune Court. Why has it remained empty for eight or nine years. We were told at a recent meeting here that it was kept in reserve for emergencies!!!! What emergencies? on Linkedin Email I know of at least two people who applied to rent the two bedroomed apartment at Doune Court. Why has it remained empty for eight or nine years. We were told at a recent meeting here that it was kept in reserve for emergencies!!!! What emergencies? link

    I know of at least two people who applied to rent the two bedroomed apartment at Doune Court. Why has it remained empty for eight or nine years. We were told at a recent meeting here that it was kept in reserve for emergencies!!!! What emergencies?

    Johnyj asked about 1 month ago

    Thank you for your query regarding the two-bedroom apartment at Doune Court and the broader allocation policy.

    To clarify, the allocation of housing is governed by a formal policy that ensures fairness and prioritises those who meet specific eligibility criteria. Not everyone who expresses interest in a property will be eligible under the council allocation policy, and applications are assessed accordingly.

    Regarding the ex-warden accommodation at Doune Court, there appears to be some confusion. This property is not being held in reserve for emergencies, although some ex-warden accommodation in other areas has been. The reason it has remained unoccupied for an extended period is not due to it being reserved for emergency use, but rather due to a combination of factors including policy constraints, suitability assessments, and ongoing reviews of how best to utilise the space.

    We understand the frustration this may cause and are committed to improving transparency around property use and allocation decisions. If you or others have further questions or would like to discuss the policy in more detail, we would be happy to arrange a meeting or provide additional information.

    Thank you for raising this matter.

  • Share I do appreciate the real difficulty you face in balancing the budget during these troubling economic times, but closing the Sheltered Housing at Doune Court only makes sense if one ignores the impact its closure would have on the Aberdeenshire economy as a whole. When it was established 40+ years ago, part of the impetus was to free up housing that prospective Doune Court residents no longer really needed after their children had left home. The benefits of this were twofold: more housing for young families whilst simultaneously giving their elders the dignity of a manageable independent home in the heart of their community- hopefully until death. Strathdon is a very remote rural community where houses are spread far and wide, so keeping an eye on one's elderly neighbour or parent can be a struggle at the best of times, and requires the energy and dedication of a saint when snow blocks the long tracks to the remoter houses. Without Doune Court many people would limp along in their old homes long after those became unsuitable for the reality of their age- with inevitable and predictable hospitalisations at far greater cost to the wider economy. Pushing a liability off your balance sheet is only sound if it doesn't create a larger liability for some other agency. Doune Court residents are able to live fulfilling lives in their later years because they are a visible part of a caring community. The ripple effects of closure are hard to contemplate: the residents are vital to the sustainability of our only local shop (which is far more than a "convenience store"); they interact with all other age groups including the school, and they depend on relatives and friends in the Strath as their support network. If they were to be moved away from here it would further erode the social fabric of this tight knit remote community, and lead to either greater traffic on the roads or social isolation for the displaced residents- both of which outcomes will have a negative economic toll on the region as a whole. The social and humanitarian reasons for preserving Doune Court are obvious, but closing it should not be an option for economic reasons too. on Facebook Share I do appreciate the real difficulty you face in balancing the budget during these troubling economic times, but closing the Sheltered Housing at Doune Court only makes sense if one ignores the impact its closure would have on the Aberdeenshire economy as a whole. When it was established 40+ years ago, part of the impetus was to free up housing that prospective Doune Court residents no longer really needed after their children had left home. The benefits of this were twofold: more housing for young families whilst simultaneously giving their elders the dignity of a manageable independent home in the heart of their community- hopefully until death. Strathdon is a very remote rural community where houses are spread far and wide, so keeping an eye on one's elderly neighbour or parent can be a struggle at the best of times, and requires the energy and dedication of a saint when snow blocks the long tracks to the remoter houses. Without Doune Court many people would limp along in their old homes long after those became unsuitable for the reality of their age- with inevitable and predictable hospitalisations at far greater cost to the wider economy. Pushing a liability off your balance sheet is only sound if it doesn't create a larger liability for some other agency. Doune Court residents are able to live fulfilling lives in their later years because they are a visible part of a caring community. The ripple effects of closure are hard to contemplate: the residents are vital to the sustainability of our only local shop (which is far more than a "convenience store"); they interact with all other age groups including the school, and they depend on relatives and friends in the Strath as their support network. If they were to be moved away from here it would further erode the social fabric of this tight knit remote community, and lead to either greater traffic on the roads or social isolation for the displaced residents- both of which outcomes will have a negative economic toll on the region as a whole. The social and humanitarian reasons for preserving Doune Court are obvious, but closing it should not be an option for economic reasons too. on Twitter Share I do appreciate the real difficulty you face in balancing the budget during these troubling economic times, but closing the Sheltered Housing at Doune Court only makes sense if one ignores the impact its closure would have on the Aberdeenshire economy as a whole. When it was established 40+ years ago, part of the impetus was to free up housing that prospective Doune Court residents no longer really needed after their children had left home. The benefits of this were twofold: more housing for young families whilst simultaneously giving their elders the dignity of a manageable independent home in the heart of their community- hopefully until death. Strathdon is a very remote rural community where houses are spread far and wide, so keeping an eye on one's elderly neighbour or parent can be a struggle at the best of times, and requires the energy and dedication of a saint when snow blocks the long tracks to the remoter houses. Without Doune Court many people would limp along in their old homes long after those became unsuitable for the reality of their age- with inevitable and predictable hospitalisations at far greater cost to the wider economy. Pushing a liability off your balance sheet is only sound if it doesn't create a larger liability for some other agency. Doune Court residents are able to live fulfilling lives in their later years because they are a visible part of a caring community. The ripple effects of closure are hard to contemplate: the residents are vital to the sustainability of our only local shop (which is far more than a "convenience store"); they interact with all other age groups including the school, and they depend on relatives and friends in the Strath as their support network. If they were to be moved away from here it would further erode the social fabric of this tight knit remote community, and lead to either greater traffic on the roads or social isolation for the displaced residents- both of which outcomes will have a negative economic toll on the region as a whole. The social and humanitarian reasons for preserving Doune Court are obvious, but closing it should not be an option for economic reasons too. on Linkedin Email I do appreciate the real difficulty you face in balancing the budget during these troubling economic times, but closing the Sheltered Housing at Doune Court only makes sense if one ignores the impact its closure would have on the Aberdeenshire economy as a whole. When it was established 40+ years ago, part of the impetus was to free up housing that prospective Doune Court residents no longer really needed after their children had left home. The benefits of this were twofold: more housing for young families whilst simultaneously giving their elders the dignity of a manageable independent home in the heart of their community- hopefully until death. Strathdon is a very remote rural community where houses are spread far and wide, so keeping an eye on one's elderly neighbour or parent can be a struggle at the best of times, and requires the energy and dedication of a saint when snow blocks the long tracks to the remoter houses. Without Doune Court many people would limp along in their old homes long after those became unsuitable for the reality of their age- with inevitable and predictable hospitalisations at far greater cost to the wider economy. Pushing a liability off your balance sheet is only sound if it doesn't create a larger liability for some other agency. Doune Court residents are able to live fulfilling lives in their later years because they are a visible part of a caring community. The ripple effects of closure are hard to contemplate: the residents are vital to the sustainability of our only local shop (which is far more than a "convenience store"); they interact with all other age groups including the school, and they depend on relatives and friends in the Strath as their support network. If they were to be moved away from here it would further erode the social fabric of this tight knit remote community, and lead to either greater traffic on the roads or social isolation for the displaced residents- both of which outcomes will have a negative economic toll on the region as a whole. The social and humanitarian reasons for preserving Doune Court are obvious, but closing it should not be an option for economic reasons too. link

    I do appreciate the real difficulty you face in balancing the budget during these troubling economic times, but closing the Sheltered Housing at Doune Court only makes sense if one ignores the impact its closure would have on the Aberdeenshire economy as a whole. When it was established 40+ years ago, part of the impetus was to free up housing that prospective Doune Court residents no longer really needed after their children had left home. The benefits of this were twofold: more housing for young families whilst simultaneously giving their elders the dignity of a manageable independent home in the heart of their community- hopefully until death. Strathdon is a very remote rural community where houses are spread far and wide, so keeping an eye on one's elderly neighbour or parent can be a struggle at the best of times, and requires the energy and dedication of a saint when snow blocks the long tracks to the remoter houses. Without Doune Court many people would limp along in their old homes long after those became unsuitable for the reality of their age- with inevitable and predictable hospitalisations at far greater cost to the wider economy. Pushing a liability off your balance sheet is only sound if it doesn't create a larger liability for some other agency. Doune Court residents are able to live fulfilling lives in their later years because they are a visible part of a caring community. The ripple effects of closure are hard to contemplate: the residents are vital to the sustainability of our only local shop (which is far more than a "convenience store"); they interact with all other age groups including the school, and they depend on relatives and friends in the Strath as their support network. If they were to be moved away from here it would further erode the social fabric of this tight knit remote community, and lead to either greater traffic on the roads or social isolation for the displaced residents- both of which outcomes will have a negative economic toll on the region as a whole. The social and humanitarian reasons for preserving Doune Court are obvious, but closing it should not be an option for economic reasons too.

    Patron asked about 1 month ago

    Thank you for your thoughtful and detailed suggestions. We appreciate your engagement and the ideas you've raised around local involvement, alternative management models, and the practical realities of life at Doune Court.

    All of these points—including the potential for voluntary or community-based support, rent adjustments, and the suitability of recent upgrades—can be considered as part of the ongoing consultation process, which remains open until 16 June 2025. We encourage you and others in the community to continue sharing your views so that all options and perspectives are fully explored before any decisions are made.

  • Share Could there be a voluntary aspect of external management to help with costs? From my understanding of staffing , upgrading and repairs would operate more cheaply and ,efficiently with local people. I understand one resident has been out of her flat for over two months due to repairs not being successfully done by the landlord. Not sure that the new gas system, recently installed , at , I imagine great expense will fulfil eco requirements now being demanded? Unsure as to costs of properties renovation to make suitable for less able . What about old properties which are already problematic? The sheltered housing in the case of Dounecourt resume though accurate re siting being opposite the shop and the surgery being at distance of 1 mile . I would argue that these are closer than in many towns! Though no bus is available the site is at the centre of the community and support for transport is supplied by the community. A community shopping bus drives to local towns every Friday . Is there a possibility that rents might have to be increased? on Facebook Share Could there be a voluntary aspect of external management to help with costs? From my understanding of staffing , upgrading and repairs would operate more cheaply and ,efficiently with local people. I understand one resident has been out of her flat for over two months due to repairs not being successfully done by the landlord. Not sure that the new gas system, recently installed , at , I imagine great expense will fulfil eco requirements now being demanded? Unsure as to costs of properties renovation to make suitable for less able . What about old properties which are already problematic? The sheltered housing in the case of Dounecourt resume though accurate re siting being opposite the shop and the surgery being at distance of 1 mile . I would argue that these are closer than in many towns! Though no bus is available the site is at the centre of the community and support for transport is supplied by the community. A community shopping bus drives to local towns every Friday . Is there a possibility that rents might have to be increased? on Twitter Share Could there be a voluntary aspect of external management to help with costs? From my understanding of staffing , upgrading and repairs would operate more cheaply and ,efficiently with local people. I understand one resident has been out of her flat for over two months due to repairs not being successfully done by the landlord. Not sure that the new gas system, recently installed , at , I imagine great expense will fulfil eco requirements now being demanded? Unsure as to costs of properties renovation to make suitable for less able . What about old properties which are already problematic? The sheltered housing in the case of Dounecourt resume though accurate re siting being opposite the shop and the surgery being at distance of 1 mile . I would argue that these are closer than in many towns! Though no bus is available the site is at the centre of the community and support for transport is supplied by the community. A community shopping bus drives to local towns every Friday . Is there a possibility that rents might have to be increased? on Linkedin Email Could there be a voluntary aspect of external management to help with costs? From my understanding of staffing , upgrading and repairs would operate more cheaply and ,efficiently with local people. I understand one resident has been out of her flat for over two months due to repairs not being successfully done by the landlord. Not sure that the new gas system, recently installed , at , I imagine great expense will fulfil eco requirements now being demanded? Unsure as to costs of properties renovation to make suitable for less able . What about old properties which are already problematic? The sheltered housing in the case of Dounecourt resume though accurate re siting being opposite the shop and the surgery being at distance of 1 mile . I would argue that these are closer than in many towns! Though no bus is available the site is at the centre of the community and support for transport is supplied by the community. A community shopping bus drives to local towns every Friday . Is there a possibility that rents might have to be increased? link

    Could there be a voluntary aspect of external management to help with costs? From my understanding of staffing , upgrading and repairs would operate more cheaply and ,efficiently with local people. I understand one resident has been out of her flat for over two months due to repairs not being successfully done by the landlord. Not sure that the new gas system, recently installed , at , I imagine great expense will fulfil eco requirements now being demanded? Unsure as to costs of properties renovation to make suitable for less able . What about old properties which are already problematic? The sheltered housing in the case of Dounecourt resume though accurate re siting being opposite the shop and the surgery being at distance of 1 mile . I would argue that these are closer than in many towns! Though no bus is available the site is at the centre of the community and support for transport is supplied by the community. A community shopping bus drives to local towns every Friday . Is there a possibility that rents might have to be increased?

    Isobel Gilchrist asked about 1 month ago

    Thank you for your thoughtful and detailed suggestions. We appreciate your engagement and the ideas you've raised around local involvement, alternative management models, and the practical realities of life at Doune Court.

    All of these points—including the potential for voluntary or community-based support, rent adjustments, and the suitability of recent upgrades—can be considered as part of the ongoing consultation process, which remains open until 16 June 2025. We encourage you and others in the community to continue sharing your views so that all options and perspectives are fully explored before any decisions are made.

  • Share Will the council intervene with placing the more vulnerable tenants in a care home and facilitate this as a priority? Will this save money?? on Facebook Share Will the council intervene with placing the more vulnerable tenants in a care home and facilitate this as a priority? Will this save money?? on Twitter Share Will the council intervene with placing the more vulnerable tenants in a care home and facilitate this as a priority? Will this save money?? on Linkedin Email Will the council intervene with placing the more vulnerable tenants in a care home and facilitate this as a priority? Will this save money?? link

    Will the council intervene with placing the more vulnerable tenants in a care home and facilitate this as a priority? Will this save money??

    STR475DON asked about 1 month ago

    Thank you for your question. To clarify, Aberdeenshire Council’s Housing Service does not provide care services—our role is to manage housing provision. If a tenant’s needs change and they require a higher level of care, such as residential or nursing care, this would be assessed and arranged through Health and Social Care services, based on individual needs and eligibility.

    Any move to a care home would not be a direct result of the housing consultation or a decision to close a scheme. These transitions happen naturally through the care assessment process, and are not driven by housing policy or cost-saving measures.

    We understand the importance of ensuring that vulnerable tenants receive the right support, and we work closely with care providers to ensure that housing and care needs are aligned where necessary.

  • Share What would the building be used for if it was closed - would you be evicting tenants just to put higher paying other tenants in place? This facility is in an extreme rural location and one of the few affordable housing options for miles and miles. There is no alternative for local people who want to remain in the area near to where they have lived and near to their families. Strathdon is so remote that there is no option to combine with another facility without people having to travel 20 miles or more. Your observations about the surgery and shop are largely unfounded - there is a weekly bus that takes folk to larger shops if they require, as many of them have lived here most of their lives this is not an issue and the local store sells pretty much everything needed, including deliveries from baker and butcher in Alford. Local drivers help with surgery visits and in addition the surgery does not have long wait times for appointments as other surgeries do. There MUST be the opportunity to explore other options before closure, opening the flats to a wider cliental of tenants, reducing overheads, increasing rent. To close and evict this accommodation without a proper review and without exhausting all other business plans would be morally wrong. on Facebook Share What would the building be used for if it was closed - would you be evicting tenants just to put higher paying other tenants in place? This facility is in an extreme rural location and one of the few affordable housing options for miles and miles. There is no alternative for local people who want to remain in the area near to where they have lived and near to their families. Strathdon is so remote that there is no option to combine with another facility without people having to travel 20 miles or more. Your observations about the surgery and shop are largely unfounded - there is a weekly bus that takes folk to larger shops if they require, as many of them have lived here most of their lives this is not an issue and the local store sells pretty much everything needed, including deliveries from baker and butcher in Alford. Local drivers help with surgery visits and in addition the surgery does not have long wait times for appointments as other surgeries do. There MUST be the opportunity to explore other options before closure, opening the flats to a wider cliental of tenants, reducing overheads, increasing rent. To close and evict this accommodation without a proper review and without exhausting all other business plans would be morally wrong. on Twitter Share What would the building be used for if it was closed - would you be evicting tenants just to put higher paying other tenants in place? This facility is in an extreme rural location and one of the few affordable housing options for miles and miles. There is no alternative for local people who want to remain in the area near to where they have lived and near to their families. Strathdon is so remote that there is no option to combine with another facility without people having to travel 20 miles or more. Your observations about the surgery and shop are largely unfounded - there is a weekly bus that takes folk to larger shops if they require, as many of them have lived here most of their lives this is not an issue and the local store sells pretty much everything needed, including deliveries from baker and butcher in Alford. Local drivers help with surgery visits and in addition the surgery does not have long wait times for appointments as other surgeries do. There MUST be the opportunity to explore other options before closure, opening the flats to a wider cliental of tenants, reducing overheads, increasing rent. To close and evict this accommodation without a proper review and without exhausting all other business plans would be morally wrong. on Linkedin Email What would the building be used for if it was closed - would you be evicting tenants just to put higher paying other tenants in place? This facility is in an extreme rural location and one of the few affordable housing options for miles and miles. There is no alternative for local people who want to remain in the area near to where they have lived and near to their families. Strathdon is so remote that there is no option to combine with another facility without people having to travel 20 miles or more. Your observations about the surgery and shop are largely unfounded - there is a weekly bus that takes folk to larger shops if they require, as many of them have lived here most of their lives this is not an issue and the local store sells pretty much everything needed, including deliveries from baker and butcher in Alford. Local drivers help with surgery visits and in addition the surgery does not have long wait times for appointments as other surgeries do. There MUST be the opportunity to explore other options before closure, opening the flats to a wider cliental of tenants, reducing overheads, increasing rent. To close and evict this accommodation without a proper review and without exhausting all other business plans would be morally wrong. link

    What would the building be used for if it was closed - would you be evicting tenants just to put higher paying other tenants in place? This facility is in an extreme rural location and one of the few affordable housing options for miles and miles. There is no alternative for local people who want to remain in the area near to where they have lived and near to their families. Strathdon is so remote that there is no option to combine with another facility without people having to travel 20 miles or more. Your observations about the surgery and shop are largely unfounded - there is a weekly bus that takes folk to larger shops if they require, as many of them have lived here most of their lives this is not an issue and the local store sells pretty much everything needed, including deliveries from baker and butcher in Alford. Local drivers help with surgery visits and in addition the surgery does not have long wait times for appointments as other surgeries do. There MUST be the opportunity to explore other options before closure, opening the flats to a wider cliental of tenants, reducing overheads, increasing rent. To close and evict this accommodation without a proper review and without exhausting all other business plans would be morally wrong.

    Charlibabes asked about 1 month ago

    We fully recognise the importance of Doune Court to the Strathdon community, particularly given its rural location and the strong local support networks in place.

    To clarify, no decision has been made to close Doune Court. The consultation is ongoing, and its purpose is to gather views like yours to help inform any future decision. There is currently no confirmed plan for the building, and we want to reassure you that this is not about replacing current tenants with higher-paying ones. The focus is on understanding the long-term sustainability of the scheme and whether it can continue to meet the needs of current and future residents.

    We also acknowledge your point about the availability of local services and community support, including the local shop, transport options, and medical care. These are important factors and are being considered as part of the consultation.

    We agree that all reasonable alternatives should be explored, including options such as widening the tenant base, reviewing operating costs, and assessing potential changes to the business model. Your feedback is valuable in helping ensure that any decision is made with full awareness of the local context and the impact on residents.

  • Share Why wasn't the warden flat rented out as well? It has been empty for some years now. on Facebook Share Why wasn't the warden flat rented out as well? It has been empty for some years now. on Twitter Share Why wasn't the warden flat rented out as well? It has been empty for some years now. on Linkedin Email Why wasn't the warden flat rented out as well? It has been empty for some years now. link

    Why wasn't the warden flat rented out as well? It has been empty for some years now.

    STR475DON asked about 1 month ago

    The former warden’s flat at Doune Court has remained unoccupied for several years. This is primarily because it was not designed or configured for general letting, and would require significant investment and adaptation to meet current housing standards and be suitable for new tenants.

    While the potential for repurposing the flat has been considered, the cost of bringing it up to standard—combined with the overall demand and sustainability of the scheme—has meant it has not been progressed to date. However, we appreciate the suggestion and understand the interest in making best use of available space.

  • Share I understand that there have been a lot of capital investments made in the past 10 years, is this part of the loss the council claims? on Facebook Share I understand that there have been a lot of capital investments made in the past 10 years, is this part of the loss the council claims? on Twitter Share I understand that there have been a lot of capital investments made in the past 10 years, is this part of the loss the council claims? on Linkedin Email I understand that there have been a lot of capital investments made in the past 10 years, is this part of the loss the council claims? link

    I understand that there have been a lot of capital investments made in the past 10 years, is this part of the loss the council claims?

    STR475DON asked about 1 month ago

    Thank you for your question. Yes, we acknowledge that capital investment has been made at Doune Court over the past 10 years to ensure the building remained safe, functional, and compliant with housing standards. However, these past investments are not the primary reason for the current financial concerns.

    The negative Net Present Value (NPV) of the scheme reflects a projection of future costs and income over the next 30 years, including:

    • Ongoing maintenance and lifecycle replacements,
    • Required upgrades to meet modern standards (e.g. fire safety, accessibility, energy efficiency),
    • And the historically lower demand for the scheme.

    While previous capital works are part of the overall financial picture, the current proposal is based on future sustainability rather than past spending alone. We will be sharing more financial information shortly to help provide further clarity.

  • Share Why is Doune court proposed for closure when only one flat is unoccupied, but even for that, i understand there is a request submitted? This shows bad management from the council, please don't put this down to the actual tenants of the Sheltered Housing on Facebook Share Why is Doune court proposed for closure when only one flat is unoccupied, but even for that, i understand there is a request submitted? This shows bad management from the council, please don't put this down to the actual tenants of the Sheltered Housing on Twitter Share Why is Doune court proposed for closure when only one flat is unoccupied, but even for that, i understand there is a request submitted? This shows bad management from the council, please don't put this down to the actual tenants of the Sheltered Housing on Linkedin Email Why is Doune court proposed for closure when only one flat is unoccupied, but even for that, i understand there is a request submitted? This shows bad management from the council, please don't put this down to the actual tenants of the Sheltered Housing link

    Why is Doune court proposed for closure when only one flat is unoccupied, but even for that, i understand there is a request submitted? This shows bad management from the council, please don't put this down to the actual tenants of the Sheltered Housing

    STR475DON asked about 1 month ago

    Thank you for your comments and for highlighting the importance of Doune Court to its residents.

    We want to reassure you that the proposal to consult on the future of Doune Court is not a reflection of poor management, nor is it in any way a criticism of the tenants. The decision to consult has been driven by a combination of factors, including long-term sustainability, investment needs, and overall demand trends over time—not just current occupancy.

    While there may be only one flat is currently unoccupied, this does not reflect the historical pattern of lower demand or the significant investment required to maintain the building to modern standards. These are the broader issues being considered as part of the consultation.

    We appreciate your engagement and encourage continued feedback as we work through this process together.

Page last updated: 19 Jun 2025, 11:18 AM