Go-ahead given for £1.5 million Wolverhampton care centre

The centre, at the site of a former petrol station in Stourbridge Road, Springhill, will offer a short breaks for disabled children and young people to enjoy quality time away from home, while giving their families respite from care giving.

Work is expected to start on site in the coming weeks.

Commissioned by Wolverhampton council, the children's short breaks service includes six bedrooms, a state-of the-art sensory technology room and a quiet room, as well as a lounge, dining room and kitchen.

The three-storey building also features a short breaks facility for 18-25 year olds to the first floor and five supported living apartments on the second floor for young adults with additional support needs, to enable them to live as independently as possible.

Cheshire-based Calderpeel Architects has secured approval on behalf of Progress Care Solutions to build the new development.

Chris Parks, of Calderpeel, said: "The scheme will support local families by giving them the opportunity to refresh and restore, helping maintain strong family relationships.

"We have worked closely with Progress and other stakeholders to ensure the design of the facility reflects the needs of young people, from early years right through to adulthood. It's pleasing to see a redundant site being brought back to life in such a positive way."

Claire Rogers, managing director at Progress Care Solutions, added: "This short breaks scheme will provide vital support to local families by helping relieve pressure on relationships, while preventing children from going into the care system.

"Support extends well beyond childhood too. The apartments give disabled young people the confidence to make that initial move to live independently, while providing peace of mind to family and friends."

Extensive gardens will also be built to give children and their families space to play, as well as relax.