An applicant is once again seeking to convert a seven-bedroom family residence on Grange Road, Olton, into a children’s care home following previous refusals by local planners.
New Focus Child Care Limited initially applied for a certificate of lawful development, which would have exempted them from needing planning permission for the change of use. However, this approach was unsuccessful.
Earlier this year, in January, Solihull Council planners refused permission for the property to operate as a care home for five children. A subsequent application in June for accommodating four children was also denied.
READ MORE: Significant Update for Millions Awaiting £70 Mastercard Compensation
READ MORE: Government Inspector Rejects Proposal for Cramped HMO in Wolverhampton
Mark Andrews, the Council’s head of planning, design and engagement services, clarified in decision notices that the proposed conversion constituted a material change of use requiring full planning permission.
In response, the applicant submitted a formal planning permission application on 29 July. While the initial documents provide limited information, they state that the care home would serve four children aged between eight and 17 years, supported by five staff members.
A parking statement included in the submission notes that the detached property offers substantial on-site parking for approximately eight to nine vehicles. This capacity is considered sufficient to accommodate five staff vehicles, the home’s own vehicle, and visits from professionals, eliminating the need for on-street parking.
The statement further assures that staff shift handovers will be staggered to avoid surpassing maximum staffing levels, to keep neighbouring access clear, and to prevent unnecessary late-night vehicle movements.
Local residents are invited to participate in the consultation process, which is currently open. The deadline for submitting comments is 1 September.
To view the application details and provide feedback, search for application number PL/2026/01412/PPFL at the Solihull Council planning portal: https://publicaccess.solihull.gov.uk/online-applications.