Decision to be made on plans for children's care home in Brownhills this week

The proposal to use 53 Great Charles Street, Brownhills, as a care home for up to three children, aged eight to 18, has been recommended for approval by Walsall Council’s planning officers.

But a petition with 16 signatures has been submitted objecting to the proposal due to traffic and parking, noise disturbance and loss of privacy.

On top of the petition, 13 people submitted comments opposing the plans.

Their reasons included not in-keeping with the area, too much noise and activity and a potential for increased antisocial behaviour and crime.

Planning officers said that no evidence has been provided to demonstrate that the future occupants would cause an increase in antisocial behaviour.

They also said the proposed use would have no greater impact on the amenity of residents compared to its existing use as a three-bedroom family home.

West Midlands Police has objected to the plans due to insufficient information about staff qualifications, site management, consultation process and security arrangements.

Three comments were submitted in support of the application on the grounds that children in care deserve a loving home, should feel safe and secure, and the current lack of existing provision.

No changes are proposed to the exterior of the building, and the only internal change would be the reallocation of an existing ground floor office.

Applicant Zazh Management Company Ltd said there would generally be two members of staff on site with a maximum of four during the daily handover time at 7am.

The decision will be made at Walsall Council’s planning committee scheduled to take place on Thursday July 17 at 5.30pm.