A Public meeting was held on the 24th August 1998 at the Merkinch Primary School, to discuss the proposal of a community care facility at the old barracks in Telford Road. In attendance were representatives from Highland Communities Trust, Robertsons the builders, the Merkinch Community Council & the Benula Road Residents and Tenants Assosciation.

Robertson’s propose to build approximately 6 units for private sale, 10 flats for private rent, 16/18 units for a housing association and a community care unit for people with mental health problems, incorporating disabled access. The care unit would be on two floors and sub divided into four, five person units with supervision by 5 staff at all times and 3 staff during the night.

The majority of concerns and questions were targeted at the need for a surgery rather than a community care facility, and that active members of the public and the Community Council had been campaigning long and hard for these facilities. The representatives from Highland Community Trusts pointed out that they were not in a position to comment on this matter.

A varied cross section of questions were asked, and information given can be summerised as follows; No assurances can be given as to who will be housed - only that they will beprogressing towards going home; Highland Communities Trust do not envisage problems with being so close to a school, due to supervision; The meeting is the first approach to the Merkinch community, to gauge how they feel about it;The proposal will be put to the planning office within the next fortnight, with 21 days to object. The Community Council will be discussing developments at their next meeting (Wed 2nd September 1998), when views of the community will be considered.

This will be an open meeting, all those who wish their views heard, please attend. If you are unable to attend please address all comments and correspondence to: