The activity centre for Central Otago people with intellectual and physical disabilities has operated out of two small dwellings on the St Enoch's church site in Alexandra, but the facility became to small too cater for the number of staff and Living Options members.
‘‘The staff that survived that tiny building with so many people in it deserve a medal,'' chief executive Alison Wildey said.
‘‘We were really grateful to have that place. The church has been fantastic.''
The 25 full-time staff and 27 members would soon be able to use their new building in Alexandra's Ngapara St.
The spacious surrounds have already made a positive impact on the Living Options members during the process of moving equipment in.
‘‘Behaviour is so much better now.
‘‘People who were more withdrawn down at the other centre are engaging in more activities.'' It would be at least another two weeks until they were able to be permanently based there.
‘‘It's nearly all completed but we've still got to get the pool in and a few other bits and pieces,'' Ms Wildey said.
‘‘The building is completed but we're just waiting to have it inspected by the council for its completion certificate. ‘‘Then they're going to do the garage, garden shed and tunnel house. ‘‘We're thinking that it will be completed in early May.'' One of the first functions to be held at the new centre was likely to be an art deco ball which had been discussed at a meeting recently.
It would be an opportunity for any of Living Options' members who missed out on going to Ranfurly's festival to attend and people from the community would be invited to come along, Ms Wildey said.
