A BRAND new extension to Worcester Snoezelen will be officially opened today, providing more leisure opportunities for people with disabilities.

Even those with extremely limited movement can make music in the high-tech music room, which is suitable for people of all ages and abilities, while there is more space for relaxation in the blue room, star tunnel, massage and video rooms.

Besides providing extra facilities in the extension, the £65,000 Reach for the Stars project has enabled improvements to be made to the rest of the Snoezelen centre in Turnpike Close.

The spa pool, white room and soft play area are still there, but the old dark room now provides much-needed storage space and the reception area is more comfortable without its sink and musical instruments.

"It has made a huge difference to us," said manager Penny Bews.

"Whereas before we could only accommodate one group at a time, we can now have two or three groups doing different things."

Designed by Worcester architect Rob Lett, the extension incorporates appealing features, such as the curved wall of the blue room, circular windows in the door of the music room and glass bricks in the outer wall, allowing sun to filter through.

Tactile labels on the doors and a colourful yellow submarine mural add to the sensory experiences, along with interactive lighting effects and a warm water bed for relaxing on.

The Mayor of Worcester, Coun Allah Ditta will perform the official opening of the extension, which has been built and equipped with the aid of grants and charitable donations.

"Our next project is to create a sensory garden, with the help of £7,500 from the Wooden Spoon charity," said Mrs Bews.