Paralympian Steve Brown officially opened a £7.8 million “hotel-like” complex for the elderly.

The captain of the London 2012 Paralympic GB wheelchair rugby team spoke of the importance of creating homes that are suitable for people of all abilities during a ceremony at AmicusHorizon’s Regis Gate development in Sittingbourne on Thursday.

Representatives from the housing association, Swale council, Rydon, which built the flats, and MP Gordon Henderson also attended.

Wyllie Court, off Attlee Way, was demolished to make way for the new building, which has been designed to be a mix of retirement and care homes.

It features 51 properties for rent and shared ownership and provides 24-hour care packages with carers on site.

There is a cafe, which serves residents two-course meals every day and is open to the public, a hair salon, activity rooms, a reception area and a place to park scooters.

In addition, there is wifi for internet access and a guest room, as well as communal gardens and parking.

It opened towards the end of last year.

Resident Sheila Crayford said: “My husband was finding it increasingly difficult to cope at home. He was no longer able to manage stairs. Coming to Regis Gate has made life so much easier for him. And there is so much going on here, I can come and join in when I need a little break.”

Mr Henderson said: “Regis Gate is an excellent example of how we can deliver a good care service to older members of our community and at the same time meet the financial challenges facing Britain in order to cater for an increasingly aged population.

“The flexible concept the scheme offers is a model that I very much hope will be replicated across Kent. I would certainly like to see something similar to Regis Gate built on Sheppey.”

Chris Stevens, commercial director of Rydons Construction, said: “Regis Gate is a scheme we are particularly proud of, bringing a range of facilities to promote independent living, and we hope its new residents very much enjoy their new homes.”