Proposals for more streamlined health and social care services in Stowmarket have been approved by Suffolk County Council.

The plans will mean the existing Stowmarket Family Centre in Violet Road being sold in return for a 25-year lease of modern, purpose-built new centre.

The new centre, due to open during summer 2002, will share the building with GPs, health visitors, a child development centre including a purpose-built fitness suite for children with disabilities, a mental health team and district nurses, as well as other professional groups.

Family centre services include working with families and children, home tuition and an advocacy service. A number of community groups also hold meetings in the building.

Allan Cadzow, county manager for children's services said: "It will offer many exciting opportunities for new ways of working together with health and education, which is the direction that we are taking with many aspects of social care.

"The building will be within walking distance of the town centre, on a bus route, and is easily accessible by car."

It will also have 24-hour access so it can be used by Suffolk GPs on call, other after-hours services, and be available for community groups in the evenings.