[Taggy]

In theory the Old Police Station/Fire Station would seem to be a more suitable location, however its availability to the PCT is probably debateable. Its probably going to have to be placed within a facility that the PCT already own, which along with Avenue Parade, would also include The Pals Centre, The Acorn Centre, Accrington Victoria Hospital and maybe even a couple more such as the former ESMI Unit (The Mount) opposite Accy Vic, and the Metal Health Support Unit on the corner of Nuttall Street/Wellington Street.

The first two have recently been built at great expense (17Million quid), I'm quite sure that there is enough space in either of these buildings, (Or even scope to add on, if needed) for a unit of this type to be incorporated into it, if the PCT have a desire to do this. Because this unit would then take up only a relatively small portion of the existing structure, it would be able to function in a more anonymous way than say a "Stand Alone" unit, in a purely residential area. Again Accrington Victoria, whilst being in a more built up area (Residential wise) than the previous two, could contain a unit within its confines, in a much less invassive way than a Stand Alone unit. If needs be perhaps a separate entrance could be created on Whalley road, to access that side of the Hospital area.

I dont know what the feasibility of the last two suggestions would be, The Mount is perhaps already fully operating to capacity. However the Mental Health Resource at Wellington St/Nuttall Street, could perhaps provide an alternative. Its more "Set back" with Car Parking than would be the case on Avenue Parade, and that particular section isnt as residential either. It would perhaps mean moving those services already there to somewhere else...perhaps such as Avenue Parade.

I do feel that use of the above facilities would prove less disruptive than what is currently being proposed. I also feel that it would not affect Property Values in the same way either, as the one on Avenue Parade would. Estate Agents have said Property values would drop between 8%-12% in the immeadiate area, with a Stand Alone Unit as is currently proposed. Contained within an existing medical facility, large enough to absorb it, property values would not be affected in this way.

I do feel that the Petition is indeed wothwhile, and that if sufficient pressure is brought to bear, than the PCT could be made to re-consider. Most of the Options mooted above, did get mentioned at the Meeting (I was There), however a deaf ear seemed to be turned to some, and at times certain things were missed due to the heated nature of some exchanges.

Its interesting to note that, until now at least, this matter has not been discussed at "Full Council" level. Hopefully thats about to be rectified, might be interesting to hear what thoughts come out of there, assuming that takes place. Council cant veto the plans because planning consent was'nt needed, however its not very often plans of this nature would go ahead, if Council expressed objections to it!

Best Regards - Taggy