Scores of residents are opposing plans to create a residential home for young children in a leafy suburb of Walsall.

Proposals to convert a property in Chester Road, Streetly, into a care home for five youngsters have been submitted.

But a total of 51 letters and another with 70 signatures have been received by Walsall Council in objection to the scheme.

Inspirations Care Services have put forward the application to change use of the building to cater for nine to 17-year-olds. This will be for children who have suffered from neglect, physical or sexual abuse or have been subject to traumatic experiences in early years.

In a report to councillors David Elsworthy, head of planning, building control and regeneration, has recommended the scheme is approved subject to conditions.

He says: “The applicants do not admit children who have sexually offended, who are drug or alcohol dependent or who have diagnosed mental health issues.

“The homes try and mirror family living as the children have usually not experienced any type of normal family environment.”

Residents are concerned about what kind of children will be housed, crime and disorder issues and fear it will be an overdevelopment in the area.

They also say there are already problems with anti-social behaviour from loitering youths and it would erode family character of Streetly. The site lies on the junction of Kingscroft Road.

Applicants insist there will be three to four adults on shift from 8am until 10pm all the time with two adults on-site overnight. The application will be considered by members of the development control committee on Wednesday.