A village GP surgery that had been closed is set to be transformed into supported living accommodation after receiving approval from the Warrington Borough Council. The Burtonwood Village Surgery on Kinnock Park will undergo a change of use to become a three-bed dwelling for supported living, along with a single-storey side extension, porch infill to the front, and boundary treatments.
The applicant, COB Investments Ltd, explained that the property, which has been vacant for over a year, is in poor condition due to a water leak and overgrown gardens. The current layout includes three consultation rooms, a waiting area, an office, two toilets, and a small kitchen area.
The proposed transformation aims to create a shared supported living home for three individuals, particularly those with learning disabilities or mental health issues. The rooms will be fully furnished with high-quality furniture, and there will be communal spaces like a kitchen, dining, and living area. A rear garden will also be available for the residents to enjoy.
Additionally, the plans include an open-plan communal kitchen, dining, and living area, a bathroom with level access wet floor, a separate toilet, and a staff office. Discussions have taken place with the Warrington Borough Council’s social care team, confirming the need for such properties in the area. Care providers have also expressed interest in operating the facility.
The property currently has off-road parking for four cars, which will be retained. While one resident expressed concerns about the safety of the supported living facility, stating that they would support the application if residents were not a danger to the community, details about a similar facility in the village that was deemed ‘incredibly expensive’ have been redacted by the council.
This conversion of the closed GP surgery into supported living accommodation not only repurposes an unused building but also addresses the shortage of such facilities in the Warrington area. The project shows a promising step towards providing suitable housing for individuals with specific needs, contributing to a more inclusive and supportive community.
