Work has started on a multi-million pound scheme that will provide extra-care housing and services for over 55s in Ormskirk and the West Lancashire area.

The scheme is a three-storey extra-care development comprising 111 self- contained apartments, a health and well-being centre and an enhanced day care service with comprehensive associated facilities. It is the outcome of a successful partnership between Arena Housing, Lancashire County Council, NHS Central Lancashire and West Lancashire Borough Council and is funded by a £7.8 million Department of Health grant, £1.7 million from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) and £2.3 million from NHS Central Lancashire. Arena will also make a contribution of £6.5 million.

Cllr Val Hopley, West Lancashire Borough Council's Portfolio Holder for Housing, said: "I am absolutely delighted that building work is beginning on this very much-needed retirement village, which will bring huge benefits to some of the most vulnerable residents in our community. The Borough Council is proud to work with our partners to bring this very important project to completion."

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The development is conveniently located in central Ormskirk, a short distance from local retail and recreation facilities and is serviced by excellent public transport links. It has been designed to ensure people can easily maintain their links with the local community and continue to play an active role in society.

The health and well-being centre will offer comprehensive services for people with dementia and their carers both from within the scheme and the wider community. These services include information and advice, memory assessment services, day support and access to peer support networks.

The Extra Care approach to care and support that Brookside is designed to deliver is flexible to the individual needs of each resident. This means that where 24-hour care and support is necessary, it is available and where minimal care needs are required residents are free to enjoy their independence and the many facilities on offer. Individuals who are assessed as requiring support will be able to determine how best their needs are met by using a personal budget.

The wide-ranging facilities will include residents' lounges, a hydrotherapy pool and fitness suite, landscaped gardens, an on-site hairdresser, and a bistro open to the wider community so residents can meet friends and family socially over a coffee or a meal. There will also be a wide range of well-being supports for people who live in the scheme and the surrounding area through close partnerships with third-sector organisations such as The University of the Third Age, Age UK and the Alzheimer's Society, providing a vibrant hub of activity within the Ormskirk area.

(CD/KMcA)