Young people with disabilities will soon have the chance to make the most of the outdoors, thanks to a new residential unit.

Work on the £460,000 Nell Bank outdoor centre in Ilkley is nearing completion and it will be officially opened next month.

The facility can house up to 20 people or a group of 12 with disabilities and their carers. It boasts the latest technology to make life easier, such as electronically operated beds and whirlpool baths. A hoist system has been installed to help bath access and a new kitchen has moveable worktops and sinks.

Underground heating systems and solar panels have also been installed, in line with the eco-friendly nature of the centre off Denton Road.

Centre manager Bruce Fowler said: “It will enable youngsters who wouldn’t normally be able to access outdoor education to come and be residents. They could always come here for a day but this will make a big difference. It means that when groups do come, they won’t be concerned about the facilities, they’ll just be able to think about what activities they can do.”

Nell Bank, managed by Bradford Council and a charitable trust, was opened in 1977, but has seen the construction of five new buildings in the past five years.

The village is built from sustainable sources and recycled timber buildings and includes a 90-seat amphitheatre classroom and shower block, opened in July 2006. It also has a Nellmobile, which can transport children in wheelchairs around the site so they can enjoy orienteering and the habitat trail through the woods.

Described as the most inclusive outdoor centre in the country, it is used by about 20,000 youngsters a year.

Mr Fowler said: “It’s a reflection of the value the community places on it and its impact on education.

“There’s increasing evidence that schools that are involved in taking children out of the classroom are doing very well. The children are more motivated and retain their learning.”

The residential unit is part of a £5 million Bradford pilot funded by Aiming High, a Govern-ment scheme to support projects for young people with disabilities. The centre was also voted the National Lottery Awards best environmental project in 2008, winning a further £2,000 towards the building.

Anyone interested in booking the unit should call (01943) 602032.