WORK to build new accommodation for younger people with learning disabilities will start in the summer, it has been announced.

The former John Darling Mall (JDM) respite centre in Selborne Drive, Eastleigh, will be bulldozed to make way for 18 one-bedroom flats, two communal areas and parking spaces.

The new facilities, on Hampshire County Council-owned land, will provide accommodation for Hampshire residents who require up to 24-hour care.

It comes after the centre was shut in 2016 when the authority said it needed major improvements costing about £5 million.

Each flat will be equipped with a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and living room. Communal spaces on the ground and first floor will be at the heart of the building, says civic chiefs, where residents can socialise together and attend organised activities. In both communal spaces, a fully fitted kitchen will be provided for catering.

County council lead for adult social care and health, Liz Fairhurst, said: “These plans form part of an investment by Hampshire County Council of up to £35 million to build fit-for-purpose accommodation for people with disabilities across the county, many of whom tell us they want to live as independently as possible, rather than in traditional residential care.

“This type of accommodation will support them to do this, but with the added assurance of care and support available on site 24/7.

“The development of the JDM site into ‘Supported Living’ accommodation will help the residents to play an active part in their local community, while they receive support and help with any activities that are required to live an ordinary a life as possible.”

The development is expected to be completed by late Spring 2019.

The former John Darling Mall site housed respite accommodation for adults with disabilities. Following a public consultation, the outdated building was closed and clients found alternative support that met their needs.

As reported, the authority said that a refurbishment option of JDM was identified, but it came at an uneconomic cost.

Planners also said that replacing the existing single-storey structure with a two-storey building made for a more efficient use of the site, leaving part of it available for another county council project or for the development of a small, private residential scheme.