This extension has been designed specifically for the provision of accommodation and care to elderly people who are suffering from dementia.

Construction of the new wing is being funded through the provision of a $1.75 million zero real interest free loan from the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing and Sale Elderly Citizens' Village will contribute more than $500,000 from reserves.

The Commonwealth loan has resulted from the Wellington Shire being identified as an area where the supply of high level residential aged care beds is below the national benchmark.

These new beds will improve the supply of high care beds in the shire, and will also provide better access to specialised dementia care in this area.

The extension to Ashleigh House is expected to be complete by July next year.

For more, read Friday's Gippsland Times.