PLANS to build the UK’s first purpose built treatment and therapy centre in Cuddington have been approved.

The new facility will be built on the former I-Map Centre, an independent autism school that has remained vacant since 2013.

A supporting statement provided with the application says the facility will set a ‘pioneering example’ for the future of care.

The centre will provide treatment and therapy on a wide range of addictions, ranging from food, depression, anxiety, alcohol, drugs, gambling, moods as well as stress and work burn out.

Case officer Liza Woodray said in her report that there are ‘clear’ benefits to the wider society by treating mental health and addiction problems, which have a ‘heavy financial cost to society’.

She said: “Overall, it is considered that the development provides a relatively unique offer which would deliver significant benefits in terms of public health, both in terms of benefits to patients of the facility and the benefits of freeing capacity/resources within the NHS and other public services.

“Economically, the proposals would provide valuable new employment opportunities for the local “community; it is estimated that 34 new jobs would be created at the facility plus jobs throughout the construction period.

“In addition, the applicant estimates an annual turnover of £3 million which will directly benefit the local economy and the wider borough.”

The report reveals that there was some disagreement whether the current building should be allowed to be demolished.

The property is one of several dwellings built for the Thompson Salt Manufacturing family. It was constructed for Henry Ingram Thomas who was the owner of the Lion Walt works at Marston.

Ms Woodray said in her report that the council’s Conservation Officer considers that the building should be retained as it makes a positive contribution to the local area as a heritage asset.

This is due to its aesthetic character and also because of its historical value, specifically because the Lion Salt Works Museum is one of the most historically significant heritage assets in Northwich.

Despite this, Ms Woodray said the proposal will result in the complete loss of a ‘non-designated heritage asset’ which is considered to have ‘limited historical significance’.

She recommended the application, which was submitted by How Planning on behalf of The Bridge, for approval.

Fiona Hore, Cheshire West and Chester Council senior manager for planning and strategic transport, grated planning permission on Friday, subject to a number of conditions.