COMPUTERISED homes that can be run at the touch of a switch could be coming to the North-East.

But it is likely to be disabled people rather than the super-rich who will benefit first.

The Percy Hedley Foundation, in Newcastle, which provides facilities for people with cerebral palsy, is looking at investing in so-called "smart living" technology.

The plan is to convert three sheltered flats so that everyday domestic functions can be carried out via tiny motors operated from a computer keypad.

With the operator directing proceedings from their wheelchair, the computer will be able to open and close doors, windows and curtains as well as controlling appliances.

Jim Ferris, chief executive of the Percy Hedley Foundation, which provides education, care and treatment for more than 200 children and adults, confirmed they were looking seriously at the idea.

"We are looking at a concept called smart living and we have just come across something which seems to be ideal," said Mr Ferris.

"We are interested in a mini-computer, which can control your home environment and do a lot of the things from a wheelchair that able-bodied people take for granted."

The foundation is keen to use futuristic technology to improve the lives of disabled residents and give them more independence.

Already, speech-recognition software is operated in the centre's computer room by disabled users.

Advanced technology also enables a disabled client to operate a computer using the tip of their nose.

Percy Hedley's success over the past 51 years has attracted interest from as far afield as Eastern Europe and the Middle East.

Mr Ferris said the centre was currently in talks with groups from Poland and The Lebanon who are interested in copying the Percy Hedley model.