A decision on whether to convert a five-bedroom house in Chester Road, Solihull, into a children’s care home is expected this week, as campaigners await the planning committee’s verdict.
Willow Children’s Home has applied to transform the property into residential care accommodation for up to three children aged between 11 and 17. The proposal, submitted to Solihull Council in November, outlines plans to allocate three bedrooms on the first floor for the children, with an existing loft bedroom designated as a staff office and sleepover room.
According to the application, the home is intended for long-term care, addressing the national shortage of children’s care facilities. The submitted planning statement notes that “the level of activity associated with the use would not be materially different from the existing use.”
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Despite this, the proposal has faced opposition from local residents. Ten objections were raised during the public consultation period, and ward councillor David Cole formally requested the application be brought before the council’s planning committee for a final decision. Neighbours have voiced concerns about the impact on the local community, although specific issues were not detailed in the report.
Planning officers have recommended approval of the application, subject to certain conditions. Their report states: “The proposal will not be harmful to the character of the existing area, the surrounding street scene, highway safety, or residential amenity. The planning balance is firmly in favour of this proposal.”
The planning committee meeting will be held at the Civic Suite on Wednesday, March 11, at 6pm and is open to the public. The session will also be streamed live on Solihull Council’s website. Those interested can view the full application by searching for reference PL/2025/02217/PPFL on the council’s planning portal.