THE foundation stones of two housing schemes for the elderly were laid yesterday.
The developments at Beech Park, Brandon, near Durham, and Grayson Road, Spennymoor, will have 24-hour alarm systems, communal lounges and a shop and hairdresser on site.
They are designed to give more care than sheltered housing, depending on the need of residents.
Work began on the housing in January and the buildings are expected to be completed soon.
The two extraCare schemes are part of a big contract signed by Durham County Council, Hanover Housing Association and the MJ Gleeson group earlier in the year, and are part of an £18m overhaul of older people's accommodation by Durham County Council, which included plans to close 17 of 25 residential homes.
In the extraCare housing, the county council will provide 24-hour care and support.
Teresa Snaith, service development manager for Hanover Housing Association, said the level of care residents receive will vary according to the need.
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