COSTS of a £7.2million extra care village in Poole have shot up by nearly £1m before a brick has been laid.

Borough of Poole has approved an additional £964,000 on top of £5.5m capital funding, to allow solar panels at Trinidad Extra Care Housing Village and to cover costs incurred due to changes in the market since the original expenditure was calculated.

The council and Poole Housing Partnership were awarded £1.7m from the Homes and Communities Agency towards the project.

Following a tender process the council has selected Drew Smith Ltd to build the 54 apartments for older people and younger disabled people.

Building work is due to start in November and plans include a central courtyard with seating areas, landscaped gardens and terraces for residents to enjoy.

There will be a restaurant, spa and beauty salon for residents and the community to use.

Cllr Karen Rampton, cabinet portfolio holder for housing, Borough of Poole, said: “We are pleased that a contractor has now been appointed to oversee this development.

“There is a growing need for this type of accommodation in Poole and we are pleased to see the project progressing, which will provide extra care housing for some of our more vulnerable residents.”

Cllr Brian Clements, ward member for Newtown, said: “It’s great to see works progressing with the appointment of the contractor.

“When finished the development will provide both Trinidad House residents and the local community with quality facilities for everyone to enjoy.”

PHP resident board member Jo Gordon, who lives in sheltered housing said: “This is great news for Poole and for all those older people who need the support extra care housing offers.

“We are delighted to be able to move forward with building these modern, much needed homes.”