This week has marked a significant time in the history of Broughty Ferry as the iconic Ferry House Care Home closed its doors. With over a century of history, providing care, compassion, and a home to countless elderly residents, Ferry House has been a cornerstone of the community.

Two years ago, Hillcrest Futures assumed the management of Ferry House after the previous trustees recognised the challenges of maintaining the facility at the required standards. Chris Robb, Hillcrest Futures head of business development and improvements explained that “Hillcrest was approached by the previous board of trustees to take over the venture and manage the closure of the care home. The building is no longer fit for purpose so we have been working with residents, families and staff to ensure their needs have been put at the forefront of the closure. This has involved working closely with Dundee and Angus Health and Social Care Partnerships to ensure we assist residents in securing suitable alternative accommodation.

“We appreciate the impact the closure has had on people and the decision was not made lightly, however we have ensured that everyone has been suitably rehomed and all staff have had the opportunity to take up alternative employment within Hillcrest Futures, meaning no jobs have been lost.”

The residents of Ferry House are well known to locals and tourists in Broughty Ferry, due to the close proximity of the home to the waterfront. Residents are often found waving and chatting to people going past on a sunny day when they’re out in the garden or in their conservatory.

Susan French, manager of the home for the last 10 years expressed her sentiments, saying “It’s an extremely poignant time. Not only have we enjoyed close relationships with our residents and staff but we have been a massive part of the local community. I would like to pass on my personal thanks to everyone who has brightened up our residents’ day with a wave and a hello and to the families of our residents who have, and remain to be, so supportive.”

In an effort to address local housing needs, Ferry House will be redeveloped into much-needed affordable housing for the Broughty Ferry area, marking a new chapter in the historical site’s legacy.