Planners to rule on supported living accommodation in Willenhall this week
Plans for a supported living accommodation development in Willenhall, which has sparked opposition, will be decided by planners this week.
The proposal to convert 72 Ashmore Lake Road, Willenhall into three flats for adults with physical or learning difficulties has been recommended for approval by Walsall Council’s planning officers.
Applicant Country Barn Estates has proposed to demolish the side garage and outbuildings of the three-bedroom detached home, and build a single story extension at the side and rear.
The flats would provide accommodation for up to three adults with the support of one or two care staff in attendance on the site during the day with one member of staff occasionally present overnight.
If approved, residents would have their own private living spaces with a bedroom, shower room, living room and kitchen.
On site staff would be available to guide and support the occupants as opposed to being their carers.
The plans have been met with a petition with more than 80 signatures against the plans, and 17 individual objections from neighbours and interested parties.
The reasons for objections include insufficient parking, impact on neighbours’ privacy, increase in crime and fears of the property later being used to house ex-offenders.
But no objections have been received by the statutory consultees and planning officers say the development complies with national and local planning policies.
The decision will be made at Walsall Council’s planning committee scheduled to take place on Thursday July 17 at 5.30pm.
