PROPOSALS for a new specialist development for older people in Ewood are set to move a step closer tomorrow.

The project will provide 92 self-contained apartments with support on the site of the former Albion Mill.

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It is part of Blackburn with Darwen council’s strategy for providing ‘extra care’ provision for older residents following its decision to close its four old people’s homes.

This has seen new developments under way at Shorey Bank in Darwen and on the site of the former War Memorial Wing of the Blackburn Royal Infirmary.

Verum Victum Healthcare has worked with the borough’s adult services department to develop the proposal for the complex, which could open as early as spring 2016.

The planning application will be considered by councillors tomorrow night following an objection from Kath Mitchell, a resident of and scheme manager for the nearby Brackendale sheltered housing development.

She is concerned about the impact of extra traffic on Albion Street and says the 27 parking spaces proposed are inadequate for 92 flats.

She calls for the council to take steps to improve traffic flow in the area as part of the major Pennine Reach road changes currently be undertaken around the Ewood interchange and site of the now-demolished Albion Mill.

The proposal to be considered by the council’s planning and highways committee is for 92 apartments – 63 with one bedroom and 29 with two aimed at over-55s.

Of these, 31 will provide support for dementia sufferers and 12 support for those recuperating from hospital treatment or who need care to avoid being hospitalised.

Roy Kenny, from Verum Victum Healthcare, said 94.7 per cent of residents consulted supported the scheme.

Albion Mill, in Albion Street opened in the 1850s, was closed due to lack of orders in 1975 and was demolished after falling into disrepair.