A £1 MILLION specialist residency for adults with autism will be developed in Clackmannanshire.

It will have three one bedroom flats, three two bedroom flats, 24/7 bespoke onsite care and one flat will be used for respite.

Scottish Autism, a charity which seeks to help those diagnosed with autism to lead full and enriched lives, has purchased the former Kilncraigs House for the project.

It now intends to invest additional money – generated in part through fundraising activity – to convert the Alloa premises into a fit-for-purpose residency. 

Felicity Lister, Scottish Autism’s regional manager for Central Scotland, said: "The investment in this property signals our commitment to supporting individuals with autism through the whole life journey which means ensuring that the service and accommodation we provide meets their needs as they change over time. 

"We aim to open the service next year and are already in discussion with a number of local authorities across Scotland about how we can support them within this new project."

The residency provides accommodation for up to nine autistic adults and will be suitable for people who also live with mobility problems and other health-related issues. 

Angela Steele, senior autism practitioner at Scottish Autism, said: "As we design the new accommodation, we will be looking to create an environment that will be suitable for individuals as they get older when they may be faced with challenging health conditions and mobility issues as well as their autism. 

"Enabling independence and ensuring people don’t become socially isolated is paramount as well as maintaining people’s dignity into old age."

Paul Stephen, lead consultant and partner at James F Stephen Architects, added: "Once complete, the building will offer flexible single storey living accommodation catering for a wide range of individuals whose needs may continue to change over time.

"We are looking forward to getting on with the conversion of the existing building with a view to Scottish Autism opening up the residency to service users in the first half of 2018."