66-bed care home planned for former priory site

A new 66-bed care home could be built in Pontefract if planners give consent.

The proposals for the three-storey building, intended for land south of Wakefield Road, have been lodged with Wakefield Council.

A design and access statement submitted on behalf of the applicant, LNT Care Developments, says the site encompasses a former priory which has long been abandoned and has fallen into a state of disrepair. Under the new plans, the existing building would be demolished.

The statement adds: “The proposals for a new purpose-built care home will have a positive impact upon the area by developing the site for a beneficial use.

“And the development would bring economic benefits by creating more employment and economic activity, both during construction and in the long-term operation of the home.

“The site’s landscaping will ensure the proposed building is in an attractive setting that contributes to and integrates well with the surrounding environment.”

LNT, which has developed over 200 care homes for older people across England since 2005, explains its planned Pontefract home would include a café, an outdoor terrace, gardens and other social/communal areas on the ground floor.

A total of 23 car parking spaces will also be provided.