BLACKBURN’S Linden House Care Home is set to almost double in size if councillors approve a major extension on Thursday.

Owner Krista Khistria wants to turn the 20-plus year old premises in Shadsworth into a complex with 22 specialist dementia care beds.

Currently the home on Delph has 34 bedrooms for elderly patients and other adults with specialist care needs.

On Thursday, Blackburn with Darwen council planning committee will consider an application to extend the single-story building with a second single storey building. with external and internal improvements. This will create a 58 bedroom home with 36 care beds and 22 specialist dementia care beds. with additional toilets, and a new reception, staff and lounge area.

All the new rooms with be en-suite.

The plan would also improve the outdoor space for resident use.

The current seven car park spaces would be increased to 12 under the scheme.

Two neighbours on Shadsworth Road have objected to the plan, one couple claiming it would overlook their property and block sunlight and the other objector concerned about the stability of a tree in the home’s grounds.

A report to councillors by planning officer Alastair Phillips said: “The overall objective of the extensions and alterations is to improve the quality of care and facilities for residents.”

He recommends approval with conditions on landscaping and materials.

Mr Khistria’s agent Ray Fish said: “We are happy with the recommendations.

“We are hopeful the scheme will be approved by the committee.”