A MULTI-MILLION pound housing development in Chester-le-Street is opening its doors to members of the public this weekend with two opens days taking place.

Cestria Community Housing’s new assisted living scheme The Elms features 52 apartments and six bungalows designed specifically for people aged 55 and over who require support with their healthcare or housing.

The £6.5m development in the town's Moorfoot Avenue is designed to allow residents to stay independent as their health needs change by providing self-contained accommodation with access to support from care and housing staff onsite if needed.

An open event is taking place from 11am to 3pm tomorrow (Saturday, October 3) and Sunday (October 4) to allow people to look inside the building, including a show apartment, giving an insight into what the development has to offer.

The event comes following the announcement that Orchard Home Care Services has been appointed to provide overnight care and support to residents of The Elms elms if required.

This is in addition to the 24-hour support provided by Durham County Councils’ Care Connect Team.

Scheme manager Sharon Sykes said: “We are delighted to welcome Orchard Home Care Services on board as our appointed care services provider.

"They are a local company and many of our new residents already use their services so they will be a familiar and reassuring presence.

“Now is a great time to come and have a closer look at The Elms with the opening of our show apartment and the open days taking place this weekend.

For more information contact Cestria Community Housing on 0191-385 1900.