WORK is now underway to bring a new multi-million-pound care home to Basingstoke.

Care UK in partnership with contractors Hamberley Development have started construction of the facility in Shortwoodcopse Lane, Kempshott.

When completed the site will be known as Dashwood Manor and will provide full-time residential, nursing and specialist dementia care for up to 70 older people and will create 63 jobs.

The two-storey home, which is expected to welcome the first residents in June 2021, will include facilities such as a cinema, café and hair salon.

Secure and wheelchair friendly landscaped outdoor space will include sensory gardens, water features and seating to give residents the opportunity to spend quality time outdoors.

Peter Griffiths, development project manager for Care UK, said: “We are delighted that work has begun at Dashwood Manor, not least because this impressive development reflects our commitment to improving the provision of residential care in the town.

“At Care UK, we take great pride in the build quality, layout and design of each individual home, as these factors can greatly impact the everyday experiences of those living in a care environment.

“Our new care home will live up to these standards and will provide a quality home for older people from Basingstoke and beyond.”

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Dashwood Manor will incorporate space for hobby and leisure activities.

The layout of the building will be configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge/dining room to help facilitate the creation of close knit communities.

John Austin, development director at Hamberley Development, added: “Construction is off to a great start and we are on track to complete the scheme by May 2021.

“As a developer of best in class care homes we’re thrilled to be working with Care UK on this much needed, high quality development for the people of Basingstoke and the surrounding area. We’re already looking forward to reaching our next milestone in the coming months.”