WORK has begun on a North-East care home complex which could create 100 jobs as the company behind it has announced plans to develop two more.

The scheme, on a 1.5acre site at Derwentwater Road, Gateshead, will provide care for 30 people with different needs and is being developed by North-East company Paramount Care.

Sunderland-based Brims Construction have started the building work, which consists of four residential homes and additional supported living accommodation.

Bosses from Gateshead-based Paramount Care have revealed they are in talks with two additional North-East local authorities with the aim of developing similar complexes elsewhere in the region.

One of the councils they are talking to is Hartlepool, about building a slightly smaller development which would create about 60 jobs.

Details of a third complex are undisclosed because talks are at an early stage.

The firm's director of care Michael Bell said Paramount specialised in providing support for people who have learning difficulties and complex support needs.

"We are a smaller, North-East company and our priority is very much the patients and the staff. It is giving the staff and the residents the choice.

"If they both have a fulfilling environment, it is a great life for both parties.

"We give a very high support level for the residents. It is the best for creating a home environment, it is taking away everything which gives an institutional feel."

Paramount's Gateshead complex, which will be known as The Ropery, also includes a day activity centre which aims to help residents learn new skills and enhance their quality of life.

Mr Bell said: "This Motivational, Occupational, Recreational and Educational Centre (MORE) will see staff, service-users and volunteers work side by side.

"Paramount's care philosophy is that if a person is taking part in enjoyable meaningful activities their life becomes more enjoyable and rewarding."

The design is being led by Gateshead-based multi-disciplinary practice the Shadbolt Group who has advised on architectural, civil, structural, environmental and geo-technical design.

Brims director Jason Wood said: "We are delighted to be working on such an innovative project for a new North East company.

"This is a very important project for Brims and has helped guarantee jobs for our own local workforce and several other local subcontractors. Work is progressing well on site and we are on programme for completion in March next year."