WORK has started on a new residential service for people who suffer from autism.

(CORR)Craegmoor is investing £1.8m in the purpose-built home on the site of the former Stead hospital on Kirkleatham Street.

The facility will initially provide 12 single en-suite bedrooms, large lounge and separate dining room and a quiet room.

The home has been designed to ensure that the environment is optimised for individuals on the autistic spectrum, including the use of therapeutic colours for wall coverings, lighting and furnishings.

Sarah Hughes, managing director of Craegmoor, which is part of the Priory Group of Companies, said: “This specialist service for individuals with autism has been welcomed by local health and social care professionals and will bring high-quality; much needed care provision to Redcar and the surrounding area.”

The second phase of the development will provide individual flats to encompass the best principles of skill development and focus on a pathway to independent living in supported tenancies.

The project, which is expected to open in May, will create up to 35 new jobs for the local area and people wishing to learn more about the senior and support worker roles are invited to attend an information event at Tuned In, Majuba Road, Redcar on Thursday, January 23 between 1.30pm and 3.30pm.