A development of 45 flats offering 24-hour social care support for vulnerable older people has been given the go-ahead.

Brighton and Hove City Council's planning committee has approved the extra care housing scheme in Albion Street, Brighton, which will ensure those with dementia can maintain their independence.

It will rise from the site of Brooke Mead, an outdated block of former council accommodation, which will be demolished.

The decision was approved by councillors last week despite opposition from a handful of local residents.

Councillor Phelim MacCafferty, chairman of the council's planning committee, said: “It is a crucially important development for the city.

“We have to take seriously the needs of the growing ageing population and the population with dementia.

“This is housing which is desperately needed and will be well used. I hope it is well loved too.”

The development is being led by the council's housing team with backing from its adult social care team.

It won nearly £2.5million of government funding for the development earlier this year.

Demolition of the existing building is due to start early next year, with residents moving in during 2015.