Proposal to convert former HMO into a care facility for children in Marston Green open for public consultation.

A plan to turn a property into a care home for children has been submitted to Solihull Council.

Applicant AMMA Childcare already operates residential children’s homes from two premises in Solihull and now wants to expand through the conversion of the home in Elmdon Road, Marston Green.

The home – a former off-licence – gained permission to become a 10-bed house in multiple occupation (HMO) in 2015.

Those plans were not implemented by the previous occupier instead using the dwelling for the purposes of fostering children who needed care.

The application is to change the use from ‘mixed retail and residential use’ to a ‘small scale’ care home.

Chartered surveyor for AMMA, Elias Topping, says in the application submission to the authority: “The proposals have been discussed with neighbours to the site.

“The proposed care home will accommodate three children and three staff.

“The aim in caring for the children at the property will be to replicate the environment of a typical family home and their daily routines will follow those of similar children in a regular family home.

“No alterations will be made to the property; with the use of the rooms as existing being retained.”

The plans show the kitchen, lounges, study, office and games room on the ground floor, while the first floor has three bedrooms, two staff bedrooms, and two bathrooms.

A consultation is now underway with a closing date for submissions of November 12.

To view the plans and submit a comment search for application PL/2024/02170/PPFL at https://publicaccess.solihull.gov.uk/online-applications.