PLANS to build a £7.5m housing development for elderly people in Mirfield have been given the go-ahead.
Older people will benefit from the construction of one and two-bedroomed flats at Huddersfield Road after Kirklees Council granted planning permission.
The 58-flats scheme, funded by Christian charity Pilgrim Homes, will provide housing for elderly people of all Christian denominations.
The complex, to be called Royds Court, will offer residents pastoral care and support by a team of volunteers.
Morning prayers, Bible studies and worship services will also be included in the programme.
David Wood, chairman of Yorkshire Auxiliary, the Pilgrim Homes' local support group, said: "Old age can be a time of great loss - of strength and health, friends and relatives, and of trust, even in oneself.
"A person's faith is an integral part of their identity and older people especially need support at this time in their lives.
"In our care, their lives revolve around the things that are so important to them - morning prayers, thanks before meals, Bible studies and worship services and a shared sense of values with other residents and with staff."
The Mayor of Mirfield, Clr Martyn Bolt, said he welcomed the development.
"This is a great opportunity for Mirfield - a social project, based on sound principles and good reasons," he said. "I look forward to seeing the scheme built and becoming part of our community."
Work was expected to start on the site in May.
