PLANNING permission has been granted to turn a former Scarborough hotel into a home for adults with learning disabilities.

The White Rails in Columbus Ravine was purchased by Milewood Healthcare Limited in July with plans to transform it into a nine-bedroom care home, employing 10 people.

A planning application was submitted to Scarborough Council laying out the plans.

It stated: “The proposal seeks to convert the building which is arranged over three levels into a nine-bedroom care home for adults with learning disabilities. The alterations would take place within the existing envelope of the building with no external alterations proposed.

“The care provider Milewood Healthcare Limited has an established home within close proximity to 128 Columbus Ravine on Northstead Manor Drive having received planning permission in 2004.” Due to local demand for this type of provision, the company wishes to expand into the host property.

“The care home would have more than 10 employees to provide 24-hour care. The ground floor level is fully accessible and would accommodate the kitchen, dining room, staff room, laundry and a bedroom and wetroom.

“A further eight bedrooms with ensuite facilities, an office, and staff bathroom would be accommodated at first and second-floor levels.”

After no objections were received during a consultation process, Scarborough Council planning officers have now approved the plans.

A nearby property in Columbus Ravine, Fountains Court, is also the subject of a separate planning application for it to be used as a rehabilitation care home for people will mental health needs.

That plan is currently out to consultation.