Plans for "extra care" Jewish sheltered housing units in Bournemouth have been submitted to the local council.
The application follows five years of discussions and involves a partnership between Bournemouth Jewish Representative Council and the not-for-profit Raglan Housing Association.
They are planning 27 flats on the site of the former David Lloyd Centre on Knole Road, opposite the Boscombe Gardens, which lead to the seafront. Close to bus connections to the major shopping areas, the proposed development will incorporate a communal garden, kosher kitchen and dining room and residents' lounge.
It is intended for those of 55 and above who have disabilities but want to live independently with some care help. It will be open to Bournemouth Jews and people with a connection to the town - for example, someone with a child living there.
The hope is that with planning approval and grant funding in place, building work will start this year with completion in 2013.
Rep council welfare officer Pat Cravitz said the project reflected local needs. A number of residents have expressed interest in the accommodation. The architect's plans were displayed before Shabbat in Bournemouth synagogues.
Although the project will be run on Orthodox lines, a requirement of the housing association and local suthority support is that in the event of empty flats, non-Jews on the "extra care" housing list can be allocated a property.