The new Kilwinning Housing Office was officially opened last week.

North Ayrshire Provost Ian Clarkson lead the ceremony at the Main Street office and was joined by Cllr Joe Cullinane, Leader of North Ayrshire Council, local ward members and members of staff.

NAC say the new facility – a former empty retail unit – is more accessible for tenants with moden features such as a selfservice kiosk which allow rent payments to be made quickly and easily.

There is no cash on the site and staff are on hand to help people become more accustomed to the new system for making payments.

Councillor Jim Montgomerie, Cabinet Member for Place, said: “The old housing office was no longer fit for purpose and it really was time to move on.

“We’ve taken an old retail unit and created something that is really modern and much better for both our staff and for customers using the service.

“The big benefit is that it allows rent payments to be made much more efficiently.

“It’s obviously a big move for staff too and they’ve carried out an awful lot of work in clearing the old office. It’s been some undertaking considering it’s been around for 25 years.

“We look forward to a new era for our housing team and are confident they will continue provide a great service for residents.”

The works to the new Housing Office were completed by the Council’s Building Services.