A £2m residential complex for those with profound disabilities has been officially opened on the Ards peninsula.

Housing Minister Margaret Ritchie and Health Minister Michael McGimpsey welcomed the completion of 10 self-contained apartments at Ardkeen, Marlborough Park North.

The development, a partnership between Habinteg Housing Association and the Cedar Foundation, features innovative assistive smart technology that offers tenants control over functional tasks that would normally be outside of their physical capabilities.

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Both Ministers toured the building and met the residents with Minister Ritchie describing the development as 'ground breaking' and 'state of the art'.

She said: "Not only do we have first class accommodation, built to the very highest standards of modern construction, but associated with that, we have incorporated innovative assistive technology that will improve the independence and quality of life for all who live here.

"This latest addition to the supported housing sector is a real, practical and tangible example of this aspiration in action," added Ms Ritchie.

Mr McGimpsey said: "This modern, well-constructed facility, which embraces and utilises assistive technologies, can improve residents’ quality of life and independence.

"It is another good example of the community, voluntary and statutory sectors all working together.

Habinteg Housing Association provided the new accommodation, with grant aid from the Department for Social Development, with Cedar Foundation providing day-to-day management.

(PR)