Two-child care home at 35 Harold Road, Smethwick

“Application reference DC/25/70251 Application address 35 Harold Road, Smethwick B67 6LJ Application description Proposed change of use from residential dwelling to residential care home for 2 No. young people aged between 8 and 18 years old. Application received 6 February 2025 Ward Bristnall Contact officer Carl Mercer carl_mercer@sandwell.gov.uk…”

“The application property is a three-bedroom dwelling situated on the corner of Harold Road and The Oval, Smethwick. The character of the surrounding area is residential. The dwelling is currently served by one off-street parking space which would be increased to three as a result of the proposal.”

“The application relates to an existing three-bedroom semi-detached dwelling.”

“That planning permission is granted subject to the following conditions relating to:”

“The proposed change of use would be acceptable in this location and would not harm the living conditions of neighbouring occupiers, with regard to traffic movements, highway safety, noise and disturbance. The proposal would accord with policy SAD H4 of the Site Allocations and Delivery Development Plan Document which seeks to ensure that proposals for housing for people with specific needs are compatible with adjacent uses.”

“No objection subject to a condition requiring a management plan.”

“The police have noted that the dwelling is within an IMPACT area (proven high crime area) and has noted a lack of a security/management plan. However, in my opinion there is no evidence to suggest that the home would generate any greater policing activity than any other family home in the area, and the behaviour of residents is down to responsible management rather than planning judgement. Ofsted would also need to assess the property for it to operate.”

“No members had been lobbied in relation to this application.”

“Members re-iterated the need for Planning Officers to interact with West Midlands Police to ensure that representations were constructive and precise.”

“Resolved that Planning Application DC/25/70251 - 35 Harold Road, Smethwick B67 6LJ (Proposed change of use from residential dwelling to residential care home for 2 No. young people aged between 8 and 18 years old) is approved, subject to conditions relating to:-”