The bungalow in Liskeard, owned by Caradon District Council, will offer day, evening and weekend activities.

It is being run by the council, local social services, disability charity the Robert Owen Community, and the Learning Disability Partnership Board.

The scheme is being started after suggestions by families and carers of those who will use the centre.

'Working together'

The centre will be staffed by trained members of the Robert Owen Community.

They will offer activities such as the teaching of daily living skills and kitchen skills, as well as leisure activities including visits to cinemas and other amenities.

Cornwall County Social Services and the Learning Disability Partnership Board are funding the project, which will help people aged between 18 and 35, with contributions of �40,000 each.

County councillor Nigel Walker, executive member for Adult Services, said: "This is the first time that the county council and a district council have worked together to provide this type of facility, and the results are fantastic.

"Respite care makes a huge difference to both our clients and their parents."