£1.8m scheme for Glossop’s Redcourt approved

St Christopher’s Trust’s £1.8 million proposal for an 18-apartment supported living home and the redevelopment of the remainder of its Hollincross Lane site into 22 houses was approved by High Peak Borough Council on Monday.

The block will replace its current accommodation within Redcourt, which the trust deems no longer suitable.

Speaking at the committee meeting in Chapel-en-le-Frith, Cllr John Faulkner said he “applauded” the trust’s plans, adding: “This is an ambitious and creative project to update the supported accommodation, which has not been updated for 30 to 40 years.”

High Peak mayor Cllr Alan Barrow agreed, saying: “It’s an imaginative proposal. I’ve no problem at all with it.”

Cllr Bob McKeown also spoke in favour of the application, saying it would allow the charity to continue its “excellent” care of its residents and provide employment for Glossop.

Following the decision, head of care Sue Hammond said: “This is very welcome news. It will improve the living environment of our residents, bringing it up-to-date. Some of the existing facilities date back to the 1970s and are reaching the end of their days.”

Work is expected to start in April next year and take nine months to complete.

Trust chairman Tony Wilkinson said: “In recent years we’ve extended care out into the community, with domiciliary assistance and supported tenancies, but Redcourt in Glossop is our cornerstone. Now we can make it even better for our residents.”

St Christopher’s Trust has been providing accommodation for adults with learning difficulties since 1954.