PLANS to convert a property in Old Town into a care home have been approved by Barnsley Council.

An application was submitted in July for the two-and-a-half storey property on Willows Close to be turned into the home for two care leavers or looked after children.

It’s hoped that the home would help those who have been in the care system to transition into adult life safely.

A report states: “The care leavers or looked after children will most likely attend college or other training opportunities available to them locally.

“Risk assessments are conducted for each young person accommodated by the service, in communication with the local authority and their social worker.

“The local authority will be the one that place the children within our service, as we are contracted by them.

“We also have a right to terminate a placement, in the event that we are unable to meet the needs of the young person, or in the event that they pose a risk to the neighbourhood.”

The plans were given the green light by the council’s planning board earlier this week.