A NEW multi-million pound flats scheme is to be built in Southampton.

City planners have given the go ahead for the scheme to build 84 flats in Wimpson Lane in Maybush.

The development will be the largest extra care housing scheme in the city.

Known as Potters Court it will cost £22 million and will include 84 homes within a housing with care facility, two-thirds of which will be one-bedroom apartments and one-third two-bedroom apartments. On the same site, there will also be a general needs block of 15 flats.

The scheme - for eligible city residents with an assessed care need - will also have a communal lounge and guest suite, plus kitchen and dining facility which can be used by others within the wider locality.

The scheme will also provide 15 general needs homes for over-50’s, comprising nine, one bedroomed and six two-bedroom apartments.

Construction of both parts of the development is expected to be completed in 2019, with housing association First Wessex acting as the council’s development agent.

Cllr Warwick Payne, cabinet member for housing and adult care, said: “I am pleased that we are now clear to break ground on the Potters Court scheme for Southampton residents who may need support in their home but want also to remain independent.

“With the recent opening of Erskine Court in Lordshill, we’re already making progress in expanding Extra Care Housing in Southampton.

"Our vision is that more schemes will follow and this promises to be the future of housing for the elderly and vulnerable, and will provide the kind of homes they want and also deserve.”

According to the council, Southampton’s Extra Care Housing gives tenants freedom and flexibility, with the option for care when desired.

Residents live in their own private home for life, with their own front door and can choose to join in social activities or follow their own schedule.