Parklands explains why construction work on £5.5 million Black Isle care home in Fortrose continued
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THE operator behind a new £5.5 million care home under construction in Fortrose has pledged it will "follow government guidelines at all times".
The Parklands Group made its remarks after questions were raised by a number of people over why work continued last week on the 40-bedroom facility nearing completion in Fortrose.
A letter written on behalf of Parklands Care Homes, shared by Fortrose and Rosemarkie Community Council, said work had continued despite tightening restrictions imposed due to the coronavirus outbreak because the facility is deemed "essential" by NHS Highland and Scottish Care, the voice of the independent social care sector in Scotland.
The letter states: "Some people have asked why work is continuing on the Fortrose care home construction site.
"This is in line with the instruction by the First Minister that 'essential' construction works should continue. Both NHS Highland and Scottish Care have classed the care home as essential; indeed Scottish Care have gone further and described it as 'critical'.
"On that basis, we are proceeding with construction. Site employees have been instructed to follow social distancing guidelines and stringent hygiene protocols are in place. We will, of course, continue to monitor the situation and will follow government guidelines at all times."
Parklands had planned staging a community-drop in session to highlight job opportunities at the facility and to establish links with local groups. But that was cancelled as a consequence of coronavirus restrictions.
Around 50 full-time equivalent jobs are expected to be created in the area when the new 40-bed care home opens its doors. It is scheduled for a summer opening.
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