Former Burnley care home set to be transformed into 50 studio flats

A former Burnley care home for the elderly plagued by vandals looks set to become supported studio flats for vulnerable young people.
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Lower Ridge in Belvedere Road has been closed since 2018.

Now Blackburn’s Majid Hussain wants to turn it into 50 self-contained studio apartments with supporting living facilities.

Since Lancashire County Council shut it, the buildings have suffered multiple break-ins, use by squatters and vandalism of electric fittings, and a rear conservatory.

Lower Ridge, Belvedere Road, Burnley. Photo: GoogleLower Ridge, Belvedere Road, Burnley. Photo: Google
Lower Ridge, Belvedere Road, Burnley. Photo: Google
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Mr Hussain’s planning application for the new use will be considered by Burnley Council’s Development Control Committee today as 22 objections have been received from residents of Lower Ridge Close.

They say the proposed use is out of keeping with their sheltered accommodation.

The objectors are concerned about ‘an intensification of use of the site, with generally younger occupants, more irregular hours and significantly more frequent comings and goings, leading to noise and disturbance’.

They add that ‘the current unsightly appearance of the property and its disrepair do not justify the proposals’

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A planning officers’ report recommends approval for the conversion of the former the care home, which had 35 residents, into the flat complex with eight conditions.

It says: “The proposal involves the re-use of the existing building with mainly internal changes.

“All 50 apartments would be single occupancy and would contain a combined living and sleeping area, small kitchen and bathroom.

“The existing areas of grass to the rear of the premises would be retained and a courtyard garden formed.

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“The proposed accommodation is aimed at young people over the age of 18, offering accommodation, support and education/training to assist in living independently in the future.

“The average term of stay would be 12 months and a maximum term of two years.

“There would be a total of 10 full time staff and 5 part time staff.

“Whilst an increase in the number of occupants may lead to a proportionate increase in comings and goings and activity levels, it would not significantly increase levels of noise and disturbance to neighbours.

“The proposal would have significant benefits by providing bespoke accommodation tailored to vulnerable young people.

“The large premises and grounds are suitable for its purpose.”

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