A HOME for the elderly is set to be demolished to make way for new state-of-the-art facilities.

The proposals, which go before Gravesham Borough Council’s cabinet on Monday, could see Wimborne House in Taunton Vale, Gravesend, knocked down and replaced with an Extra Care sheltered scheme.

Wimborne House currently has 36 units, only 11 of which are occupied, and which are no longer fit for purpose, according to the council report.

The new scheme would include 60 two-bedroom homes with 24-hour on call care and assistance, and would be a mixture of shared ownership and social housing.

It also includes a communal lounge area, restaurant/bistro, hairdressers, chiropody, pod style lounges, laundry and overnight facilities for guests.

It is proposed that it would create 20 new jobs and would help the council meet the growing demand for sheltered housing for the elderly.

A council spokesman said: “Residents from Wimborne House have visited an Extra Care sheltered scheme in Enfield and their feedback was very positive.”

Cllr Anthony Pritchard, cabinet member for housing, said: “Extra Care sheltered is the way to the future and this could be the first one of its kind in the borough.

“The plan for Wimborne House will provide facilities that can be shared with the local community as well as providing excellent modern living conditions.”

What do you think of the scheme? Leave your comments below, email gravesendmessenger@thekmgroup.co.uk, or write to us at Gravesend Messenger, 7 High Street, Gravesend, DA11 0BQ.