A CENTRE for injured police officers in the Ribble Valley could be extended if plans are given the go-ahead by planning chiefs.

St Michael’s Lodge in Langho, owned by the North West Police Benevolent Fund, was opened in September last year to provide rehabilitation for infirm and injured police officers from across the region.

The imposing early 20th-century lodge was taken over by the force’s charity in November 2008 and had been the village primary school between 1911 and 1983.

After the school closed it remained derelict until it was converted into a hotel in 1990.

The centre, which has nine en-suite bedrooms and a gymnasium and physiotherapy treatment room, is used by retired and injured officers from Lancashire, Cheshire, Greater Manchester and Merseyside police forces.

And now outdoor facilities at the centre are to be revamped and extended with a water fountain and garden ‘allotment’ areas which are deemed ‘therapeutic’.

In a report to Ribble Valley Council, it stated: “The facilities provided are a proven success, however full rehabilitation is incomplete because of the lack of essential outdoor amenity space.

“In this sense we mean space that provides paths and rest areas within landscaped grounds to provide exercise and recreation in the open air.”

The new facilities will be built on a piece of farm land recently purchased by the charity to the west of the building.

The fountain will be surrounded by a circular seating area and a perimeter path. There will also be a new Gazebo, shrubbery and trees.

The facility is offered for use by members of the charity for short breaks and rooms cost up to £55 per night.

The plans are currently being considered by planners at the council.