NI Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie has cut the first sod for a new housing scheme in Co Down for people with dementia.

The £3m Downpatrick development by Trinity Housing Association is in partnership with the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust.

The scheme will provide 12 two-bedroom apartments for frail elderly people and 12 one and two bedroom apartments for people with dementia. The accommodation will deliver housing in an environment where support and domestic care is available 24 hours a day, to allow residents to live as independently as possible.

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"Last week, the Alzheimer’s Research Trust highlighted the need for more focus on dementia sufferers," said the Minister.

"The launch of this new scheme is a reminder of what can be achieved when the Social Development Department, the Health Department, the Housing Executive and the voluntary sector work in unison to come up with innovative and much needed housing solutions for some of our most vulnerable citizens."

She continued: "When I launched the New Housing Agenda, I envisaged housing opportunity and choice for all members of society. I want to ensure that everyone has a home that is suited to their own specific needs.

"This new facility has been very much designed around what will make residents lives better. It will be person centred and will create maximum choice for all who will live here."

The apartments for dementia sufferers will be arranged around secure courtyard gardens with internal communal spaces to cater for organised leisure and recreational activities. The building has been designed with wide corridors and low level glazing to maximise sky visibility and daylight.

(NS/BMcC)