A MAJOR care scheme in a Hampshire city has cost nearly £1.5m more than expected.

Originally the Chesil Extra Care Scheme in Winchester, which is still being built, was expected to cost £15.43m – however the scheme is now forecast to cost £16.82m.

Previously there have been warnings that the scheme is too expensive and in November of 2015 civic chiefs approved an extra £2.4m for the flats and last year the Daily Echo revealed that the work had gone £800,000 over budget.

The scheme for 52 flats aims to provide care for over-55s whilst respecting their independence

The latest increase of nine per cent, was questioned by councillors at the Overview and Scrutiny Committee at Winchester Guildhall.

A council report states the rise in costs has been caused by additional works and fees, and re-routing a BT Cable, replacing soakaways, treating “soft spots” in the soil foundation.

LABC warranties, and the cost of delays due to the extra works and meeting planning conditions have seen a rise in the cost.

Chief housing officer Richard Botham said: “There have been a number of things that have occurred since the start of the project.”