New name for Eric Gray centre ahead of launch

THE REPLACEMENT Eric Gray Resource Centre has been given a new name ahead of its launch in a few weeks.

The centre, which will provide specialist support for adults with learning disability, autistic spectrum disorder and complex needs, will be called Eric Gray@Seafield.

The £6 million Shetland Islands Council facility at Seafield in Lerwick has been built by DITT.

It features over 70 rooms, including a sensory space with fibre optic light installations, and it promises greater accessibility and mobility for users.

The new name came after discussions with service users, families, staff and officers.

Integration joint board chairwoman Marjorie Williamson said it was “tremendous” to see the replacement facility near completion.

The original facility at Kantersted Road was built in 1978, but it was decided in 2014 to some amount of public celebration that a new, modern facility should be built.

“The service which has been provided over the years to some of Shetland’s most vulnerable people has been invaluable, and Eric Gray@Seafield is sure to see that continue into the future,” Williamson added.

Councillor Allison Duncan, who is the vice-chairman of the board, thanked “everyone who has been involved in this project so far – service users and their families, staff, officers, contractors and politicians alike”.