Children's home for two at 105 Hillside Close, Billinge, St Helens

What was proposed

The application sought to change a dwellinghouse into a children’s home for up to two children, with additional front parking.

“The application is for the change of use from dwellinghouse (Class C3) to children's home (Class C2) for care of up to 2no. children.”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The site is a semi-detached two-storey corner property in a residential area near shops, bus stops, open space and local services.

“The application site consists of a semi-detached two-storey property, positioned on the corner of Hillside Close. The property is located in a predominantly residential area with similar style properties. The application site is close to local amenities, including shops, bus stops, and public open space, with Billinge Local Centre a short distance to the east of the site.”

“The property has been extended in the past with a two-storey side and single storey rear extensions. The external fabric of the building consists of facing brickwork with uPVC windows and interlocking concrete roof tiles. To the front elevation of the side extension has a flat roof dormer feature with uPVC cladding.”

Officer report

Earlier planning history

An earlier application for an extension for a self-contained flat was granted in 1980.

“H110115 - Extension for self-contained flat (amended plan). GRANTED. 12.12.1980.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

Highways, Children’s Services and the Noise Officer raised no objection after further information was provided.

“Highways Advisor (22.04.2025, and 20.05.2025) – No objection raised. An objection was initially raised; however, the applicant has provided additional information. There would be up to four members of staff during the day and two members of staff at nighttime. There is parking for four vehicles within the curtilage following the removal of existing lawn to the front of the property and unrestricted parking along the frontage.”

“Commissioning Manager (Children’s Services) (08.04.2025) – No objection raised. Officer has no concerns about this location.”

Officer report

Objections and support

Twenty-four letters from twenty-one households objected, while two letters from one household supported the children’s home.

“This application has been advertised with neighbouring notification letters, and a site notice. Twenty-four letters from twenty-one households have raised objections as a result of the public consultation and are summarised as follows: • Details about future occupants. • Increase in anti-social behaviour. • Similar facilities nearby. • Parking and highway issues. • Noise and disturbance • Lack of consultation/publicity. • No job opportunities in the local area.”

“Two letters of support from one household have been received and can be summarised as follows: • Area is suitable for a children’s home. • Sufficient parking provided within the site. • Children deserve to have a safe house.”

Officer report

Who spoke

Four local residents presented objections, a supporter spoke in favour, and the applicant presented their case.

The committee decision

The committee granted planning permission subject to five conditions, including a two-person limit and requirements for parking and servicing areas.

“Grant Planning Permission Subject to the following conditions:”

“Prior to the first use of the children’s home the area indicated on the submitted plans to be set aside for parking and servicing shall be surfaced, drained, and permanently marked out or demarcated in accordance with the details and specifications shown in drawing number A103 Rev. A (Proposed Site Plan) received by the Local Planning Authority on 22.05.2025.”

Minutes