A MULTI million pound respite and residential centre is planned for Birchwood.

But nearby residents have already raised concerns about the proposals.

The Griffiths Court Foundation, named in memory of Warrington Headmistress Marjorie Griffiths MBE, is hoping to build on the site of the former Oliver Plunkett School in the area.

A planning application is yet to be submitted but it is proposed that the centre would offer around 20 residential and 20 respite places for people with wider ranging disabilities.

The centre will also be a day facility, providing a range of facilities including complimentary therapies such as hydrotherapy and physiotherapy.

It will be open to disabled people aged 18-65, their families and carers, with the aim of promoting independent living and inclusion.

The Foundation, whose Patron is Lord Hoyle, have recently begun an initial four month consultation period and work is under way on the design of the building.

The project is expected to take between three and four years to complete.

The foundation's secretary, Paul Harrison, said "Our mission statement is to provide a source of high quality services for disabled people, their families and carers, which will assist in maintaining independent living. In addition, we would undertake to work closely with the Birchwood community and play an active role in meeting community need."

Some residents who have attended a consultation meeting about the plans have voiced their concerns about the size and potential parking problems if the plan were to go ahead.