Independent living, rooted in the community
Mount Pleasant is a 100% affordable, age-friendly housing development delivered for West Dunbartonshire Council in partnership with CCG Scotland. Providing nineteen new homes for people aged 55+ looking to downsize locally, the scheme creates a welcoming, inclusive community where residents can live independently with comfort, confidence and dignity.
The development is arranged as three blocks offering a mix of flats, bungalows and cottage flats around a central community garden. This shared green space is designed as both a social heart and an orientating landmark, visible from each block and supported by clear pedestrian routes. Large windows maximise natural daylight and strengthen residents’ connection to landscape and outlook.
Inclusive design principles are embedded throughout. Step-free routes and level thresholds improve everyday usability, while lift access supports residents as mobility changes over time. Homes include wet rooms with step-free showers, and selected wheelchair accessible homes feature rise-and-fall worktops to enhance independence. Dementia-friendly considerations help reduce anxiety and support wayfinding: the four-storey block uses a distinct colour scheme on each floor, and external features such as doors and planting boxes are differentiated to aid recognition and orientation.
The design approach is informed by Housing for Varying Needs and dementia design principles, alongside research highlighting the wellbeing benefits of visual connection to greenspace for older people. Safety was also prioritised from the outset, with guidance from the local Designing Out Crime Officer contributing to a secure and comfortable environment. In recognition of this commitment, Mount Pleasant achieved the Secured by Design Gold Award.
With its blend of adaptable homes, clear layout, strong safety credentials and shared outdoor space, Mount Pleasant supports inclusive living and a strong sense of community helping residents to thrive now and in the years ahead.
