Teesway One Nine Nine - Richard Jemison, Chris Firth and Nigel Whitfield
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Villagers have their say on care centre plans
Jun 3, 2008
VILLAGERS turned out in force to find out more about plans to turn a former school into a care centre for old folk.
Officials from Blackthorn Homes, which owns part of the St Peter's site, in Gainford, held a public surgery in the village to outline their plans and gauge feedback on the scheme.
The company's proposal is to develop 70 units offering independent accommodation with communal facilities such as a restaurant, kitchens, laundry, bar, sitting room, swimming pool and exercise area.
The scheme would offer residents nursing care and 24-hour emergency cover and also include a therapy unit and facilities for visiting consultants.
Cllr Tim Madgwick told Gainford Parish Council members: "They seem to have had a lot of feedback.
"The subject of community access was broached, but it is early days yet.
"They are saying they want to work with the village. It was good they came in and showed willing.
"They took a lot of notes about the comments that were made," he added.
Cllr Madgwick said the main issues that had been highlighted was that of parking and whether there would be enough spaces for visitors.
Members were told written observations left in the village hall after an exhibition of the plans had also been forwarded to the developers, councillors were told.