A six-month project at Langvout Court in Biggar, South Lanarkshire, has highlighted how smart sensor technology can improve the safety, efficiency, and quality of life in retirement housing. The initiative brought together Archangel, a Glasgow-based digital health company, Bield Housing and Care, and the Digital Health and Care Innovation Centre. It was funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology as part of the Glasgow City Region 5G Smart and Connected Places Programme.
Sensors were installed in 10 individual properties and communal spaces at Langvout Court to monitor temperature, humidity, and motion. These sensors connected to Archangel’s ambient assisted living platform via the Angelnet resilient network. The system allowed for continuous monitoring to detect risks early, improve environmental safety, and enhance housing compliance. One application included monitoring for conditions that could lead to legionella, helping ensure the water system stayed safe.
An independent evaluation by Edinburgh-based consultancy FarrPoint found the project led to significant cost reductions and service improvements. The study reported an annual saving of £7670 in heating costs and £2825 in maintenance expenses. Automated monitoring also reduced the need for staff to carry out routine checks, freeing up time for more focused care. Real-time data from the system enabled faster responses to environmental issues, improving tenant safety and supporting regulatory compliance.
Gavin Wright, Head of Property Management at Bield, said: “This project exemplifies how thoughtful innovation can support older people to live independently, safely and with dignity. We’re proud to have played a key role in a partnership that’s delivering real, positive change. The smart technology we trialled at Langvout Court has brought clear cost savings and improved safety. As a result, we’re now exploring how this approach can be rolled out across our wider estate.”
Janette Hughes, director of planning and performance at the Digital Health and Care Innovation Centre and Chair of the UKTIN Health Working Group, added: “This is ultimately about making housing more connected and safer, which allows for more responsive communities creating the conditions for people to live happier, longer and more secure lives in their own properties.”
Kate Milne, an economist at FarrPoint who led the evaluation, said: “As independent consultants, we often do studies evaluating the real impact that technology can bring, and I’m pleased that this particular assessment showed positive benefits of intelligent sensors to residents at Langvout Court. Not only did it enhance their sense of safety and wellbeing but also supported Bield staff to deliver more timely, informed responses.”
Tom Morton, CEO of Archangel, explained: “The independent FarrPoint evaluation confirms real, measurable outcomes that address today’s operational, financial and regulatory pressures as well as a return on investment within the first year. By aggregating data across housing and care environments, the Archangel platform delivers safer homes, reduces energy and maintenance costs, improves compliance and frees up staff time. This isn’t about experimenting with innovation. It’s about helping leaders turn information into action, confidently and cost-effectively. Our partners are empowered to deploy secure, proven, scalable solutions with real-time insights available 24/7 that drive strategic impact, operational efficiency and better outcomes for people and communities.”
According to the final report, the technology demonstrated a return on investment within its first year. If expanded to all sheltered housing developments across Scotland, the model could save an estimated £18.5 million annually.
