Project to turn derelict Cramlington flats into supported living accommodation granted planning permission

The development, proposed by property management firm Warwick Investments, will see a two storey building on Allensgreen renovated and given a new use after council officers granted the scheme planning permission.

The building was built in the 1970s and contained eight two-bedroom flats, but has been vacant for years.

It will now be reconfigured into eight one-bedroom flats and be given a new roof and communal spaces on each floor. Parking and a communal garden area are also included in the plans.

Future residents of the building will live independently but be supported by a registered care agency.

The proposals were backed by the council’s adult services department, which in a statement in response to the plans said: “The proposal for the refurbishment of the residential block for supported living in Cramlington will help us deliver accommodation in an area of need.

“The location has easy access to local services and facilities and will help the council address the shortfall in provision.”

The developer had argued the scheme “delivers economic and social benefits” for the area by creating jobs and responding to demand for supported housing locally. They added that the project would give the vacant building a “new lease of life.”

In their report outlining the reasons for granting planning permission, council officers said: “The proposal would deliver accommodation for the vulnerable needs groups through the adaptation of existing residential units, which accords with the aims of relevant policy.”