A HISTORIC vicarage could be transformed into a 57-bed retirement home, under proposals handed to town hall planners.
The Grade II listed Old Vicarage, in Church Lane, Barton, could be converted into the home which will look after elderly residents and dementia sufferers.
Applicant Paul Hearn has applied to East Staffordshire Borough Council for a change of use to a residential nursing home and to make internal alterations to the building.
The vicarage dates back to the early 19th century and it was first granted listed status in 1964.
Under the plans there will be no changes to the front of the building, but there will be a two-storey extension to the rear in order to accommodate the new bedrooms.
If granted, the care home could create 60 jobs which will go to people living in the nearby area.
Speaking in a supporting statement with the application, Mr Hearn said: “The village lacks a care home. The facility will provide for accommodation for older persons especially those with caring difficulties, with infirmities and with stages of dementia.
“At present, those in need of such homes have to travel some distance and have to quit the village.
“The provision of the facility will, in turn, allow other houses (previously occupied by residents) to be released onto the open market.” The plans incorporate 15 visitor and staff car parking spaces, as well as six communal living areas and two kitchens.
There will also be a reception area and administration office, along with a kitchen and laundry room.
Potential residents at the home would also have access to the 760sq m of garden area at the back of the house.
Mr Hearn, who owns specialist care firm My Care, added: “Significant demand exists for a residential care home within this part of East Staffordshire Borough’s area with the nearest rural care homes being at Hoar Cross while all other facili- ties are centred on Burton, Lichfield and Swadlincote.”
A public consultation on the proposals is open until May 31, but the borough council has not yet set a decision date.