A PURPOSE-built extra care complex of one and two-bedroom flats for the elderly could be created in Ripon at a cost of £2.5m.

The scheme is part of consultations which have been launched on modernising care provision for the elderly in Ripon.

North Yorkshire County Council, in partnership with the Hanover Housing Association, wants to create better alternatives to residential care homes.

The extra-care scheme would provide a range of services similar to those in care homes with round-the-clock care.

And facilities in such a development would include a cafeteria, communal lounges, assisted bathing rooms and other specialist features.

A spokesman for the social services department said the current buildings no longer met modern standards, and many older people preferred to maintain a high level of independence while still getting the same standard of care as in residential homes.

"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," he said.

There is no set time-scale for development but, subject to the consultations, funding possibilities could be explored later in the year.