CONCERNS have been raised over plans to expand and renovate a derelict Bishop Auckland care home and bring it back into use.

A planning application has been submitted to Durham County Council for 19 new self-contained apartments at Langholme Care Home, High Bondgate.

The building has remained empty since 2010 and when in use had 27 bedrooms with a number of bathrooms.

The new scheme will provide accommodation for people with mental health problems who will follow a recovery plan prepared by the Mental Health Foundation.

Each tenant will only use the apartments for a maximum of two years.

In a document to the county council, Wight Developments states: “These people will be moving on into less supportive or main stream housing when they are ready.

“This is a vitally important scheme for people with mental health issues and our client’s proposal is in line with the Government’s recommendations.

“With regards to site management supervision we would confirm that there will be a staffing presence on the site which is likely to be 24/7.

“There will be a staff room with a small accommodation to allow overnight stay. Staff will work shifts which will allow supervision to take place around the clock.”

Residents living nearby are worried about the impact on parking and also the standard of the extension.

Objections have also been raised over the lack of information provided about the people who will be living there.

One resident is opposing the first floor level car park, claiming the access is not suitable.

Another resident added: “This proposal is not an appropriate one for this side of High Bondgate and will make an already serious access and parking situation worse.

“Ten residential units already exist on the street and we have unresolved access and parking problems.

“A further 19 self-contained units to be given approval would be a dreadful lack of judgment and lack of understanding of the impact that will be created for residents and visitors.”

A decision on the application will be made shortly.