A VACANT office building could be transformed into supported living accommodation for people with mental health problems or learning difficulties.

Plans have been submitted to convert Constellation House, in Milltown Street, Radcliffe, from offices into four supported housing scheme flats. The building would cater for up to 17 people, with three four-bed flats and one five, each containing a kitchen, dining area and communal sitting space.

Northern Healthcare Ltd, which has made the application, currently has a similar facility in Barrow-in-Furness and is hoping to breathe life back into the building, which has been empty since December 2014.

Joe Preshur, the company’s director, said into a letter to Bury Council’s planning office: “As an organisation, Northern Healthcare Ltd provides ongoing support and rehabilitation for individuals with long term mental health problems or mild learning difficulties who are vulnerable and in need of ongoing 24-hour support in their local community.

“We are looking to develop and open in Radcliffe a similar development to our successful flagship, Glen Garth House, which is based in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria. The facility will have a similar ethos in that we will be looking to provide this service to those who reside and receive support from Radcliffe Adult Social Care or NHS Services. We will also be aiming to recruit our staff from the local workforce as we recognise that it is important to be part of the surrounding community.

“We are also acutely aware of our environmental responsibilities and have included plans for staff changing and showering facilities and actively encourage staff to either cycle to work or use public transport.”

“We will also be using the same philosophy with tenants as the use of public transport is seen as a key part of rehabilitation and recovery.”

In a supporting statement, the applicants said that it is “very unlikely” that the site would generate any employment in the short to medium term and that alternative uses should be considered. They added: “The scheme will result in vast visual enhancement to the street-scene and indeed the proposals reduce the risk of the site falling into a state of neglect and disrepair.” A total of 16 nurses and support workers would be employed if the plans are given the go-ahead.