Work has begun on a new £1.5 million short-break facility for disabled children and young people in Derbyshire.

The single storey complex, at Lea Green, will have six twin bedrooms with en-suite, a lounge, kitchen, dining room, sensory quiet room and access to a computer suite.

Families, and organisations working with disabled children, will be able to book the buildings and try different activities. These include outdoor adventure, sport, arts and crafts, sensory and soft play activities.

Changing facilities there will be made available to disabled young people and their families, regardless of whether they are staying.


Funding for the development has come from the Government’s Aiming High for Disabled Children grant.

Councillor Barry Lewis, Derbyshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Young People, said: "We wanted to provide a place where families with disabled children could holiday together with all the facilities they need.

"Feedback from disabled young people who have tried various activities at Lea Green has been very positive.

"We’re hoping this new complex will build on this success and make it possible for more children from across the county to try what is on offer."

Lea Green already offers a range of facilities across its 25 acre site, including:

• sports hall
• astroturf pitch
• craft room
• lounge and games room
• assault course
• climbing tower and team swing
• bikes and buggies
• bouldering room and traversing wall
• ball pool.

Building work is expected to be completed by March next year and should open the following month.

(CD/KMcA)