Children’s home at 27 Hurst Lane North, Castle Bromwich, Solihull

What was proposed

The application sought to change a single dwelling into a children’s home for up to three children, with no external alterations.

“Proposal: Change of use of single dwelling (C3) to children home (C2) for up to 3 children.”

“This planning application seeks consent for a change of use from a dwelling house (Class C3) to a residential children's home (Class C2) to accommodate no more than 3 children aged between 8 and 18 years old, with 3 adult carers over 24 hours in this four-bedroom semi-detached house. No external alterations to the building are proposed.”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended approval because the proposal was considered acceptable for the area, neighbours, highway safety and traffic flow.

“Recommendation: APPROVAL subject to conditions…”

“This report will demonstrate that the proposal will not be harmful to the character of the area, residential amenity, highway safety or the free flow of traffic. The proposal is therefore in accordance with the adopted development plan and guidance in the National Planning Policy Framework (the Framework). The development therefore benefits from the presumption in favour of sustainable development and the planning balance is firmly in favour for this proposal.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

The parish council, drainage service, highways service and police raised no objection, with police seeking CCTV subject to a condition.

“Castle Bromwich PC – No objection subject to neighbour comments. SMBC Drainage - No objection.”

“SMBC Highways - No objection. • SMBC Childrens Commissioning - No comments received. • WM Police – No objection subject to condition (CCTV to be installed)”

Officer report

Objections and support

Seven objections concerned noise, parking, safety, character, antisocial behaviour and activity, while support focused on local need and safeguarding.

“In total, the LPA has received 7 objections to this application including Ward Councillor Alan Feeney and a letter of support from Councillor Leslie Kaye. All correspondence has been reviewed and the main issues raised are summarised below (Planning Committee Members have access to all third party correspondence received):”

“Noise • Parking Issues • Highway safety concerns • Impact on character of the local area • Impact on Public safety • Anti Social behaviour • Lack of secure fencing • Increase in coming and goings…”

Officer report

Who spoke

Councillor Leslie Kaye spoke in support of the application.

The committee’s decision

The committee granted conditional approval in accordance with the officer recommendation.

“PL/2025/01514/PPFL 27 HURST LANE NORTH Conditional approval as per the officer recommendation.”

Minutes