The Yard Dundee refurbishment

The Yard is thrilled to announce an ambitious refurbishment of our Dundee centre, a critical step to close a “significant gap” in services for children and young people with disabilities and additional needs. This £1.6M project will create a state-of-the-art, fully accessible facility that provides year-round support, respite, and play opportunities for families across the Dundee area.

Since opening in 2015, The Yard Dundee has evolved from a two-day family play service to a five-day-a-week support hub, including a schools programme and holistic family support. This summer, we proudly expanded our offerings to provide summer provision for the first time, serving 337 children last year alone. However, the current facility’s condition and layout have limited our capacity to grow.

With ownership of our Drumlanrig Place building now secured from Dundee City Council, and planning consent approved, the refurbishment will enable us to serve even more families in a welcoming and inclusive space.

“Every child deserves a safe space to play and be themselves. The Yard’s inclusive approach ensures that every child and family feels welcomed and supported. This renovation is about creating a true one-stop shop for family support—addressing the practical challenges families face while providing meaningful, inclusive play opportunities.”
— Gill Thomson, Service Development Manager

Key improvements include a new roof, the addition of a Changing Places room, a sensory room, larger play areas, office and meeting spaces, and upgraded garden and external play facilities. Thanks to supporters, including the Scottish Government, The Robertson Trust, The Gannochy Trust, and The Northwood Charitable Trust, the transformation will provide Dundee families with much-needed access to expanded services, including holiday, out-of-school, and respite care.

Cheryl Ferguson, whose daughter Rio regularly attends The Yard, highlights the positive impact the service has had on her family. “There’s no judgement here, only support and understanding,” Cheryl shares. “When The Yard reopens, we’ll be able to visit even more often, which means so much to us.”

Stewart Hunter, Convener of Children, Families, and Communities, praised the project: “The Yard is an invaluable asset to Dundee, providing tailored support for children with any disability. We’re proud to partner with The Yard to help expand its facilities and meet the demand for out-of-school and holiday provision.”

Renovations will begin in November 2024, with an anticipated completion in late summer 2025. During this time, The Yard’s Dundee services will continue at the Dundee East Community Sports Club, while administrative support and outreach work will operate from our Wellgate Centre office.