DISABLED children could find a home from home under a new plan by social services.

In a joint project with the Portico Housing Association, a bungalow will be built next to Avondale Health Centre in Halliwell, providing round-the-clock respite care for up to six children at a time.

At the moment families who need a break can take youngsters to Elizabeth Ashmore House in Chorley New Road.

But social services chiefs believe the new, purpose-built bungalow will provide a more homely and enjoyable environment for the youngsters.

Portico Housing Association will buy the land off Avondale Street and build the bungalow, which will then be leased to social services, benefiting dozens of Bolton families.

Cheryl Eastwood, Bolton's children and family services assistant director, said: "Elizabeth Ashmore House is quite institutional. This will have a more homely feel and be more practical."

A planning application has been submitted for the building this week and Portico is consulting with local residents about the scheme.

Garages lon the site will be demolished and some trees cut down, although others will be planted in their place.

Children aged 10 to 16, some in wheelchairs, will use the building for breaks ranging from one night to a week at a time.

Staff will be on site 24 hours a day to support the children and help them with their personal care.

Mrs Eastwood added: "We want the young people to enjoy the break as well. It is not just somewhere for them to go."

If planners give the scheme the go ahead social services hope the new building will be ready and open for use before the end of next year.