A DARWEN B&B will be converted into a mental health crisis centre for youngsters despite elderly residents from a supported housing development launching a petition over the proposals.

Ten residents of The Gables in St Albans Road, Darwen, which is a supported housing development catering for older people located on the corner of the proposed Blackburn Road development, objected after raising fears of the possibility of increased anti-social behaviour.

But Blackburn with Darwen Council planning officer Nick Blackledge granted permission for the development to go ahead.

Proposals were lodged last month to convert the B&B on Blackburn Road into a centre for men and women between 10 and 20. The centre will have five en-suite bedrooms for young people.

The vision is to support young people in crisis from mental health difficulties.

Mr Blackledge said: “The rationale of the proposal is such that it will offer stabilisation and managed transition for young people back into the community in a safe manner.

“The placement will be Care Quality Commission (CQC) registered and audited through Ofsted. It will be staffed 24hrs and seven days per week, with two support workers and a registered mental health professional on duty during the day.

“The submission demonstrates that the centre will be appropriately staffed and rigorously managed at all times.”