A DUKINFIELD hotel will be turned into a ‘much needed’ centre that provides families help in looking after their children after planning permission was granted.
Barton Villa, on Crescent Road, will be converted after Lancashire-based Future Beginning Limited was allowed to set up at the property.
It will now become a residential centre offering parenting assessments for families, mainly consisting of one parent and one child up to five years old.
And it will offer parenting assessments for people referred via the social care arena and legal processes, directly from various local authorities.
The programme is designed as a 12-week parenting assessment and the positive outcome is for them to return home with their children.
10 families can be accommodated at the centre, which will be staffed 24 hours a day for 365 days per year.
And even though it will be converted inside, there will be no alterations to the outside of Barton Villa.
A letter with the application states: “The centre will abide by strict policies whereby a zero tolerance of no alcohol, drugs or violence related concerns are tolerated.
“Each family must meet the criteria of no active use of drugs or alcohol and any cautions or convictions for arson, violence or crimes of a sexual nature, prior to acceptance.
“It is proposed that local people will be employed where possible and the use of public transport could be used for commuting. Residents do not have personal vehicles, so parking for staff is the only consideration.”
Tameside Council detailed how the application received two letters of support, describing the plan as an excellent use for this building, far better than seeing it being turned into another HMO or flats. Another said it is a much needed service provider in Tameside and the community to support families and children and the property will receive fewer guests and will be a perfect fit in the area.
Tameside Council granted permission for the change in a planning notice issued by its director of place, Ian Saxon.