Construction has begun on a new housing development for the elderly in Dalry.

The Watt Court development will create 22 modern homes as part of a sheltered housing complex and a further 15 for supported accommodation.

Each of the homes will be served by a biomass heating system to reduce energy emissions and lower residents' energy bills.

North Ayrshire council said the development has been designed specifically to meet the needs of the area's older population.

Councillor Jim Montgomerie said: "One of our major priorities at North Ayrshire Council is to create homes that are suitable for the long-term needs of local residents.

"Once complete, this new sheltered housing complex at Watt Court will deliver that by being fully accessible and easily adaptable to cater for the varying needs of our older population."

The Watt Court complex follows a number of other refurbishments and developments across the local authority area.

Mr Montgomerie added: "The results of these transformations have been first class and the residents have given us hugely positive feedback on their new surroundings. We hope that residents at Watt Court will be just as pleased."

The first phase of the development is expected to be completed by August 2019.