An image has been released of a £6 million extra care housing scheme to replace axed residential homes in Sandwell.

The development is planned for the site of the former Kingsmeadow residential home in Brandhall, Oldbury. It is hoped it will be ready for its first residents by next year.

Sandwell Council will have the first call on use of 54 rented units to offer independent living for senior citizens as an alternative to residential homes. The project will also offer 33 shared ownership units. It is the first of three major extra care units to be built over the next three to five years in the borough.

They will offer self contained accommodation, communal facilities which may include a shop, restaurant and gym. The Oldbury development may also have a pool with a floor that lowers.

The idea behind the scheme is that residents can enjoy independent living while being able to call on help if needed. The number of older people in Sandwell living in extra care housing is expected to rise to about 1,000 in the next three years.

An extra care development is open at Penmakers Court, Smethwick, and another is to be created in Claypit Lane, Greets Green. Potentially a further two sites may be earmarked for Rowley Regis or Wednesbury. The extra care housing would be a mixture of new building by a registered social landlord and upgrades of existing Sandwell Council and private sheltered housing stock.