Black Country semi to finally become children's home - three years after Sandwell Council voiced fears about noise

Right Steps Care has been told it can convert the three-bedroom semi in Hill Road, Tividale into a care home for two youngsters aged from seven to 17.

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In 2022 Sandwell Council refused permission for a similar scheme amid concerns about noise and nuisance to neighbours, and also about potential traffic problems.

Alan Lunt, director in charge of planning at Sandwell Council, said the latest application had now addressed these issues.

The latest plan will also see the garage of the house converted into an office and shower room, while the driveway would be extended to provide parking for up to three cars.

A statement issued on behalf of the applicant, which already operates a care home in Oldbury, said that at present the house was occupied by a family of four, and there was no reason why the scheme would lead to more road traffic than was previously the case. 

Mr Lunt said the previous application had failed to make it clear how many children would be living at the property, how many staff would be based there, and what the shift patterns would be. 

But he said the new application had addressed these issues.

Right Steps Care said the property was ideally located in a residential neighbourhood. 

"This will enable care and support to be provided for young people in a safe, caring household environment, giving them a foundation from which they can go on to live happy and fulfilling lives in the community," it said.

* Find out about planning applications, licensing and roadwork notices in your area by visiting publicnoticeportal.uk.