York healthcare facility given go ahead to support acquired brain injury specialists

A York based healthcare facility has had its plans for a new acquired brain injury hospital approved by City of York Council.

The Disability Trust plans for a new acquired brain injury hospital at the Chocolate Works in York will secure around 145 local healthcare jobs, as well as retaining a vital mental health service in the city.

After more than 20 years of operating from York House at The Retreat on Heslington Road, the facility is closing, requiring The Disabilities Trust to move its operations. In partnership with Henry Boot Developments (HBD), The Trust identified land south of The Residence at the Chocolate Works to deliver a high-quality and purpose-built facility.

The Disabilities Trust is a charity which provides services across the UK for people with an acquired brain injury, and separately those with autism and learning or physical disabilities, supporting their independence. The York facility specialises specifically in rehabilitating adults with an acquired brain injury.

Bill Chidgey, director of corporate services at The Disabilities Trust said: “We are delighted to have received planning permission which will allow us to continue our presence in York after more than 20 years of service.

“This development will enable us to provide the people we support with the highest quality of facilities, to aid and support them in their treatment and rehabilitation.

“We’re proud to call York our home and are looking forward to building strong ties with local residents and our new neighbours.

“Throughout this process our priority has been to retain our workforce and provide long-term assurances to the people we support and their families. Now our plans have been approved we can look forward to our future in York.”

Tom Wheldon, director and head of region at HBD added: “We’re pleased to have been able to partner with The Disabilities Trust to bring forward this new facility - it will bring huge benefit to so many people and retains a vital mental health service for York.”