'Up to 20 staff' - Concerns as plan for supported living accommodation is launched in Lostock Hall

Almond Estates Ltd want to change the use of 152 Croston Road, Lostock Hall, into a facility for vulnerable adults who need care provision. The application also includes a single-storey rear extension and alterations to windows and doors.

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The three-storey property is next to St Paul’s Church, a Grade II listed building. In a statement to South Ribble Borough Council (SRBC), the applicant’s agent says: “The scheme aims to sensitively repurpose the property, retaining its appearance, and adding an extension and improvements to registered service accommodation units.” They say the proposed use and single-story ground-floor extension “will not detract from the setting of the nearby Grade II listed building.

Potential for 20 staff on site

It goes on to say that the proposed care facility will be “continuously staffed to meet the needs of vulnerable adults requiring full-time care and supervision”. Staffing will be provided on a rota system with three eight-hour shifts operating between 6am-2pm, 2pm-10pm and 10pm-6am.

At peak times, up to a maximum of 20 staff may be on site, this includes two-to-one or three-to-one supervision, depending on the resident's needs. The facility will operate as a registered care service rather than a supported living facility. No visitors, such as social or health works are expected to attend. All care would be provided for by in-house trained staff.

The development includes a total of nine on-site parking spaces, which the applicant deems as suitable for the intended use. A statement says: “The end user intends to recruit staff locally with access to sustainable transport links via bus routes or train stations that are within a reasonable 15-minute walk. This is from the bus stops along Croston Road and Lostock Hall train station. There is the opportunity for staff to walk and to the application site rather than using personal vehicles.”

Each suite will contain features including a bedroom, dining area and enuite/wet room, with space provided for a communal area and staff room.

Local reaction

Concerns have been raised in the local community, and representations have been registered with SRBC. One objection states: “The proposal states up to 20 staff per shift for six residents, with shift changes at 6am, 2pm and 10pm. This could generate significant vehicle movements at peak and unsociable hours, particularly around school dismissal time, creating highway and pedestrian safety concerns and noise disturbance.

“The site sits between a primary school, play park and church hall hosting youth groups. This is a highly sensitive location. The intensity of a C2 use with high staffing levels is not compatible with the surrounding residential area and risks harm to local amenity and community safety. For these reasons, the application should be refused.”

Another ‘neutral’ comment raises questions of boundary gates and parking on the road.

A decision will be made in coming weeks by SRBC.

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