Telford & Wrekin finalises Farcroft thinking

Redevelopment as an extra care facility is on the cards for the council-owned site off North Road, Wellington.

The local authority has now finalised a business case for a new-build extra care facility for older people with dementia living in the borough.

Subject to planning approval, the facility will provide self-contained accommodation, with access to 24/7 care and communal areas, enabling people to live as independently as possible in a safe, secure and supportive environment.

The new scheme reflects Farcroft’s previous use, providing accommodation and care services for older people, including those with dementia, before it closed.

Following the closure, the council worked with the then owner to help residents and families to find alternative accommodation: the council then acquired the site.

Existing buildings on the site, now empty, will be demolished, refurbishment having been ruled out as too costly in light of enhanced accessibility requirements.

Like many boroughs, Telford & Wrekin faces a sharp estimated increase in people living with dementia, creating an urgent need for more high-needs extra care housing.

Cllr Paul Watling, Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet member for adult social care & health systems, said: “I’m delighted that the Council is planning to invest in redeveloping this important site in Wellington which will create a new high quality facility, enabling local people who have lived in the area all their life to remain living well in the heart of the community.

“It also addresses a shortage of dementia care facilities that we have in the Borough.

“We have been working closely with local Councillors Paul Davis and Graham Cook and we want to reassure residents that we are fully committed to bringing this site back into use as part of our commitment to create a better Borough and we look forward to sharing further details in due course.”