Plans for Village GP Surgery to Transform into Supported Living Accommodation
A village GP surgery building in Burtonwood could soon undergo a significant transformation if plans are approved by the Warrington Borough Council. The proposed change of use for the Burtonwood Village Surgery building on Kinnock Park includes converting it into supported living accommodation, featuring a three-bed dwelling and additional amenities.
The applicant, COB Investments Ltd, has highlighted the current state of the property, noting that it has been unoccupied for over 12 months and is in need of repair due to a significant water leak. The gardens surrounding the building have also become overgrown, further emphasizing the need for revitalization and repurposing of the space.
Interior Layout and Proposed Usage
The interior layout of the existing GP surgery includes three consultation rooms, a waiting area, an office, two toilets, and a small kitchen area. The proposed transformation aims to repurpose these spaces to create a shared supported living home for three individuals, particularly catering to those with learning disabilities or mental health challenges.
According to the documents submitted with the application, all rooms in the property will be fully furnished with high-quality furniture. In addition to individual bedrooms, there will be communal areas such as a kitchen, dining room, and living area for residents to share. A rear garden will also be provided for the occupants to enjoy outdoor space.
Additional amenities planned for the supported living accommodation include an open-plan communal kitchen, dining, and living area, a bathroom with level access wet floor, a separate toilet, and a staff office. These facilities are designed to cater to the specific needs of the residents and ensure a comfortable living environment for all.
Collaboration with Social Care Teams
The applicant has engaged in discussions with the commissioning team at Warrington Borough Council’s social care department to address the shortage of supported living properties in the area. The council has confirmed the need for such accommodations, highlighting the importance of initiatives like the proposed transformation of the GP surgery into supported living accommodation.
Furthermore, COB Investments Ltd is in talks with several care providers who would potentially operate the property once the transformation is complete. These discussions aim to establish partnerships that will ensure the effective management and provision of care services to the residents of the supported living accommodation.
Parking and Accessibility
The current off-road parking area in front of the property can accommodate up to four cars and will be retained in the proposed plans. This provision ensures that residents, staff, and visitors have convenient access to the supported living accommodation, enhancing its accessibility and usability for all stakeholders.
Future Considerations and Decision Making
The submitted plans for the transformation of the Burtonwood Village Surgery building into supported living accommodation are currently under review by the Warrington Borough Council. The decision on whether to approve the application will be made in due course, following a thorough evaluation of the proposed changes and their potential impact on the local community.
It is essential for the council to consider the benefits of repurposing the GP surgery building into supported living accommodation, particularly in addressing the shortage of such properties in the Warrington area. The collaboration between the applicant, care providers, and social care teams demonstrates a commitment to meeting the needs of vulnerable individuals and enhancing the quality of care services available in the community.
In conclusion, the proposed transformation of the village GP surgery into supported living accommodation represents a positive step towards providing suitable housing and care options for individuals with specific needs. By repurposing the existing building and creating a supportive living environment, the project has the potential to make a meaningful impact on the lives of residents and contribute to the overall well-being of the community.