Solihull Council Grants Planning Permission for New Children's Home in Marston Green
A significant planning application to convert a five-bedroom house in the village of Marston Green into a children's home has been officially approved by Solihull Council. The decision, made by officer Mark Andrews, head of planning, design and engagement service, on December 22, marks a positive step towards addressing the urgent need for regulated care facilities in the area.
Details of the Approved Proposal
The property, located on Holly Lane in Marston Green, is currently used as rented accommodation. Under the new plans, it will be transformed into a children's home to provide a safe and homely environment for up to three young people. The applicant, Partab Hirani, specified that the children residing at the home would be aged up to 18, with a maximum referral age of 17.
In a supporting statement, planning agents Lux Architecture emphasised the minimal impact of the change, noting that noise levels would be comparable to those of a typical family dwelling. They highlighted the critical shortage of high-quality, regulated children's homes in the region, a concern also raised by Ofsted. The proposal aims to set a precedent for future developments to support vulnerable children.
Operational Structure and Community Response
The home will be managed with a structured staff arrangement to ensure round-the-clock care and supervision. A home manager will be based at the property from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, handling administrative duties and staff oversight. Additional staff will work on shifts to provide continuous support for the residents.
During the public consultation process, Bickenhill Marston Green Parish Council participated and raised no objections to the plans, indicating community acceptance. The approval is subject to several conditions, including that the development must be used exclusively as a children's home for no more than three children and that the conversion must commence within the next three years.
Background and Future Implications
The application was originally submitted to Solihull Council in August, following growing concerns about the lack of regulated care options for children in need. By granting this permission, the council aims to contribute to a broader effort to improve local care provision and meet regulatory standards.
This approval not only addresses immediate needs but also encourages further initiatives to support children requiring residential care. The plans remain accessible for public viewing on the council's website under application reference PL/2025/01594/PPFL, ensuring transparency in the planning process.
