People living in Forest Glen in Glenarm, Co Antrim held a celebratory coffee morning recently to welcome the completion of a £180,000 refurbishment by Clanmil Housing.  

Residents were also saying farewell to much-loved domestic assistant Rosaleeen Meban who is retiring from her role after 22 years. 

The common room, which is the social centre of the independent living scheme, has undergone a stunning transformation, with a state-of-the-art media unit, as well as seating, soft furnishings and artwork that complements the seaside views.  

Fresh new paintwork completes the look in the common room, quiet room and in the entrance hall and corridors.  

Energy-efficient LED lighting has been installed in the lounge as well as in corridors and externally. A new heating system has been installed in common areas, while the fire alarm system has been upgraded throughout. 

The guest room, which is available for residents’ friends and family to use, was also given a refresh, and flooring was replaced throughout the building. 

Speaking at a celebration event to mark the completion of the work, resident Mary Buckeridge commented:  

“My husband Ken and I have lived here since July 2021 and you wouldn’t think it’s the same place! It was definitely dated and the colour scheme wasn’t the best, but now it’s light, bright and with a modern colour scheme. It's a pleasure to come into the place now. We enjoy spending time in the common room having coffee mornings and the occasional lunch.” 

Clanmil’s Director of Assets and Building Safety, Tony Giffen, added:  

“At Clanmil our purpose is to provide homes for people to live well and this investment in Forest Glen is part of our commitment to upgrading independent living schemes so that they are safe, comfortable and attractive places to live. We’re delighted that the people living here can enjoy the new-look surroundings and benefit from the improvements in energy-efficient lighting and heating. We invested more than £764,000 during 2022/23 to maintain and improve properties for older people. During 2023-24, we are committed to investing a further £1.5m in updating and improving independent living schemes as part of a wider £5million investment in all of our properties.” 

If you or someone you know is interested in living at Forest Glen, please contact the Scheme Co-ordinator to arrange a visit. Tel 028 9087 6000 or email: housing@clanmil.org.uk