WORK on the next phase of a £4.19m housing scheme for elderly people in Thornaby is about to start.

Stockton Borough Council is working in partnership with registered social landlord Anchor Trust on the development at the former John F Kennedy House sheltered housing accommodation.

Demolition of the old scheme will begin soon and construction will be under way in January.

The development will comprise of a mix of 31 two-bedroomed apartments and 17 two-bedroomed bungalows designed for older people.

Safety and security will be at the heart of the scheme, with a door entry system and security cameras.

Councillor Martyn Ingram, the council's cabinet member for housing and community safety, said: "This scheme reflects the council's commitment to working to provide housing of the very best quality for our elderly and vulnerable residents."

It will replace a building which no longer provided up-to-date facilities.

A lack of 24 hour extra care provision, poor heating and security and shared facilities, along with a growing ageing population meant the old development needed replacing.

Plans for the new development include facilities such as a hairdressing salon, laundrette, consulting room and communal gardens.

Funding has been secured through the Housing Corporation.