Future-Proofing Sheltered Housing in Aberdeen

Aberdeen City Council sought to modernise its sheltered housing schemes to ensure safer, more accessible environments for older residents. At Summer Hill House, where tenants range in age from 60 to 95, the council partnered with Intratone to replace outdated analogue systems with digital video-enabled door entry and access control.

June 4, 2025

The Context: Modern, Inclusive Security by Tenant Choice

When Aberdeen Council explored modernising the entry system at Summer Hill House—a sheltered housing scheme built in the 1970s and 80s—the decision was led by the tenants themselves.

Residents chose to upgrade to a more secure, user-friendly digital system that could support a wide range of technologies, from landlines to smartphones, reflecting the needs of a community aged 60 to 95.

The Solution: A Seamless, Collaborative Upgrade

Working in partnership with RB Wilson and Intratone, the council delivered a modern, cloud-based door entry and access control system. The installation required no on-site programming, ensuring a fast, low-disruption rollout.

The Results: Greater Independence, Better Security

The new system includes video-enabled entry points at both main and side doors, allowing residents to see and speak to visitors before granting access—enhancing both safety and confidence.

Calls are routed to each resident’s chosen device, whether a landline, mobile, or smart device, giving them full control over access, wherever they are.

Enhanced Accessibility and Ease of Use

Proximity fobs were also introduced, allowing doors to open automatically as residents approach—particularly helpful for those with reduced mobility. Together with a user-friendly app and support materials, the upgrade has delivered real, everyday benefits.

A Future-Proof, Tenant-Centred Solution

This project reflects Aberdeen Council’s wider strategy to modernise housing with scalable, digital-ready infrastructure. Thanks to strong collaboration with RB Wilson and Intratone—and crucially, a resident-led decision-making process—Summer Hill House is now a model for modern, inclusive sheltered housing.

Share this story