WORK on a new mental health unit which could revolutionise the treatment of severely-ill patients looks set to get the go-ahead.

The purpose built £6.5 million unit at Queen's Park Hospital, Blackburn, is part of a major upheaval in the treatment of people with acute mental problems in East Lancashire.

A damning report into the service was compiled after patient Michael Horner killed his wife shortly after he was released into the community.

A second review also said the service was under-resourced and that staff were under considerable pressure.

The new unit will mean more beds will become available for patients from across East Lancashire and the level of care will also be improved.

A planning application has been submitted to Blackburn with Darwen Council and is likely to be approved next Thursday.

The plan is to link the new centre to the existing elderly and mentally infirm unit at Queen's Park Hospital.

The nearby day centre will be demolished to make way for the new centre and a new car park built to cope with the extra demand.

Planning officers at Blackburn Town Hall are recommending the application is approved.

But the council wants the building materials to match the rest of the hospital and also wants landscaping work carried out.

A number of other conditions are also likely to be added before planning permission is granted.

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