Solihull planners have rapidly approved a proposal to convert a family home in Olton into a children’s care home. The application, submitted by HAB Real Estate Limited, concerns a property on Greyfort Crescent intended to accommodate up to two children, aged between five and 17 years.
The plans indicate that the children will be supported by two staff members working shifts, alongside a registered manager to oversee the facility. This application was considered at the Solihull Council planning committee meeting on 24 July, which also included approval of a separate care home proposal in Olton, despite earlier concerns raised by West Midlands Police about the concentration of children’s care homes in the area.
During a public consultation, 21 objections were received from local residents expressing various concerns. However, planning officers recommended approval, noting there were no objections from statutory consultees, including the highways authority. Officers stated that the proposal would “not be harmful to the character of the area, highway safety or the free flow of traffic, or residential amenity.”
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The committee meeting, held at the Civic Suite, saw no public speakers. Committee chairman Councillor Bob Grinsell quickly opened the discussion, confirming with planning officer Matthew Heynes that there would be no changes to the existing dimensions of the home.
The proposal was then put to a vote, resulting in six members in favour, two against, and one abstention, leading to its approval.