Rob Loughenbury, who is standing to be Chorley MP at the next election, wants to see Sue Ryder resubmit an application for the new care home after the charity withdrew its proposals in June. The plans would see Cuerden Hall redeveloped into apartments and the funds used to build a new care home on land next to the Hall.
The proposals have drawn criticism from local wildlife campaigners concerned about the preservation of trees on the site. Rob has held separate meetings with both the Sue Ryder team and local campaigners, in order to hear from both sides in the debate.
Current Labour MP for Chorley, Lindsay Hoyle, has previously written to the Council in opposition to the application.
Rob said,
“I have met both sides in this debate and listened carefully to their views. On balance, I want to see this development go ahead. Sue Ryder provides excellent care for people with profound difficulties and their needs outweigh the otherwise valid concerns of campaigners. In short, people are more important than trees."
“I do not doubt that Mr Hoyle’s motivation in objecting to the new care home is sincere. My concern is that the people advising him have one eye on pleasing local residents ahead of the election next year."
“As Chorley MP, my first duty will always be to the most vulnerable in our society.”
