CHESHIRE’S visionary scheme to provide care for older people has received a major boost after its bid for a further 400 extra care homes was given the go-ahead.

The Government has approved the county council’s Round 5 bid application to build four developments for the over-60s in the Ellesmere Port, Chester, Macclesfield and Congleton districts.

Extra care provides purpose-build apartments within a landscaped development with access to a 24-hour care team as well as a range of communal facilities designed to promote health and well-being.

The developments are funded under a Private Finance Initiative, with the county council responsible for the provision of all required levels of on-site domiciliary care supervision.

Work will now begin to identify potential locations for the new developments.