A FORMER hotel in Clacton is being turned into a "pioneering" care home offering supported living for the elderly.

The old Argyle Hotel, in Colne Road, is being redeveloped by property entrepreneur Michael Chittenden.

It is due to reopen this autumn as Sand Dunes, eventually providing 36 self-contained and studio apartments for the over-55s.

Packages will cost from £195 to £295 a week including catering, cleaning and laundry services.

Mr Chittenden, who is also refurbishing Clacton's Royal Hotel and previously set up Silversprings care home in Thorrington, claims Sand Dunes will offer a high level of care at about half the cost of a conventional residential home.

“We know there are a large number of people who need support in later life, but are not yet ready to move into care, or are unable to afford the fees charged by a care home,” he said.

“The type of accommodation we are now offering at Sand Dunes is very unusual in offering a high level of independence as well as providing a complete package for a fixed weekly price – so residents can know precisely what their living expenses will be."

Half of the apartments should be completed by the end of September.