CHESHIRE East Council has granted planning permission for developers to convert the Sandhurst Hotel and Restaurant, in Chester Road, into accommodation for people with disabilities.

The hotel has been vacant since it was sold last year.

The application said: “The building will have provision for 24-hour on-site support. The residential accommodation has been specifically designed for vulnerable adults with learning and physical disabilities who may need occasional support in their daily lives.

“The aim is to help these individuals lead an independent life in good quality well-equipped accommodation with access to on-site support as and when required.”

The plans include six en-suite bedrooms and six self-contained studios, as well as staff accommodation, a sensory room, assisted bathroom and a communal kitchen.

Edward Cratchley, case officer, said: “The proposed development is acceptable in principle and is of a satisfactory design that would not have a detrimental impact upon neighbouring amenity or highway safety.”

To view the application, go to planning.cheshireeast.gov.uk and search reference number 19/1549C.