PLANNING permission is being sought to build two assisted living residential blocks.

An application was submitted to Barnsley Council last week to build the two units, which will consist of 14 apartments between them, between Cromford Avenue and Blackheath Road, Athersley South.

The applicants, Lifeways SIL, have been providing specialist support and recovery services since 1995 – and are currently the UK’s largest supported living care specialist.

They say that following discussions with the council, it is clear that these types of services are needed in the town.

A report states: “It has been confirmed that as of January 27, 2023 there were 204 people with learning disabilities, mental health and/or autism being supported under the ACSES supported living framework, housed in 29 supported living units across Barnsley.

“She also confirmed that there is a need and therefore a shortage of supported accommodation to be delivered under the ACSES framework.

“At the time it was confirmed that the amount of supported living accommodation does need to increase to continue to meet the current needs of a further (estimated) 28 people.

“Clare Burton, senior commissioning manager of adult joint commissioning at Barnsley Council, also provided Alpha Dora with confirmation that there is a need for supported accommodation and provider support to be delivered under the ACSES framework.

“Stating the gaps in provision include, mental health accommodation and support, and whilst we have some mental health support providers on the framework this is insufficient to meet the current and future needs.”

A total of 35 neighbouring properties have been made aware of the plans, with no appeals to date.

Public consultation ends on January 2.