WORK has started on a multi-million-pound scheme to provide a specialist care centre for dementia sufferers.

The former Linden House in New Street, Lymington, is being bulldozed to make way for the new complex that will create between 80 and 100 jobs.

The home for the elderly closed several years ago, despite a long campaign by residents to keep it open.

Now Lymington-based Colten Care is preparing to replace the boarded-up building with a 60-bed care home costing £8.5million.

Finance director Mark Aitchison said: “I suspect many people will be pleased to see the back of what has become such a prominent eyesore. “Much work has gone into the design of the new building to enable the best care to be provided.”

He added: “This is going to be a fantastic home.

“It’s great to be starting work on site and to see our vision begin to take shape.”