A MULTI-MILLION pound scheme to provide extra care for elderly people in North Yorkshire was unveiled yesterday.

Work on a complex, providing flats for residents of a care home in Stokesley, could get under way in the next year after county council bosses announced a partnership project with Broadacres Housing Association.

Springfield House is expected to be either sold off or demolished to make way for the £2.5m building, which could also include an improved town library.

If approved, the development is likely to take place on the council depot site, which is being relocated to the outskirts of Stokesley.

Officials at the county council pledged that all Springfield House residents would be given the chance to move to the new-look facilities and would be consulted on the proposals every step of the way.

The scheme would provide services similar to those found in care homes, with support available from a dedicated team of staff 24 hours a day.

Also included in the building designs will be a cafeteria, communal lounges and assisted bathing rooms.

Neil Revely, of North Yorkshire social services, said: "This scheme will allow us to meet the changing aspirations of older people, many of whom now prefer to maintain a high level of independence, whilst providing the same level and standard of care that you currently find in our residential homes.

He said: "All of the existing residents would be given the opportunity to move to the new facilities and the county council is eager to discuss the proposals with local people.

"Our aim is to look at how we can provide a modern replacement for Springfield House, providing all the services currently on offer, but in new purpose-built accommodation."

Depending on the consultations and planning permission being secured, building work could begin within the next 12 months, subject to the Housing Corporation's decision on capital funding for the project.

A decision is expected within the next few weeks.