The expansion of a family care centre in East Lancashire is set to go ahead following council approval.

Sisu Services currently occupies a house in Inglewhite Road, Longridge, which it uses to house young families for short to medium-term stay-overs.

The company’s website says they aim to provide a “warm and nurturing environment” where families can “rebuild, heal, and grow” through professional support, education, and recreation.

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Last month they lodged plans with Ribble Valley Borough Council to build an internal door between two neighbouring properties in order to create a five-bedroom house.

A planning statement said: “A place in a residential family centre is one means by which children can remain within their parents’ care when children’s services have identified a potential risk for that child that needs further assessment and support.

“These placements are used for babies and very young children with either a single parent or two parents together and could be single or multiple children.

“The expected average stay is for 12 weeks so a comprehensive parenting assessment can be completed.

“The setting is staffed on a 24/7 basis. Careful consideration has been given to staff rotas to prevent disruption to residents and to ensure access to public transport for staff.

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"The total number would be five staff and it is not envisaged this is likely to increase.

“There would not be any increased noise or activity other than what would already be reasonably expected from properties of this size. Professional visits to the property would be minimal.”

The council approved the plans subject to the usual conditions.

To read the plans in full, visit the council's planning website.