Care scheme approved in St Helens

Acting on behalf of HB Villages, the Manchester office of development consultancy Peter Brett Associates has secured planning permission for 16 supported living flats on the site of the former Railway Hotel in Thatto Heath.

Michael Gilbert, principal planner at PBA, said: "The plans by HB Villages to demolish the dilapidated public house building, which was a focus for antisocial behaviour in the area, and replace this with much needed accommodation for people with learning and physical disabilities, were welcomed by members of the planning committee."

Alastair Sheehan, group development director at HB Villages, said: "This result closely follows our other recent success in Garston, and we look forward to delivering this important resource for people with disabilities who are seeking to live independently within a supported environment."