Plans to build two children's care homes in Amblecote

In June, Dudley Council granted Smethwick-based Bains Builders permission to demolish the High Street club, which closed its doors in 2002, and build four semi-detached houses.

Work has already begun, but now the building firm has applied to change the use and build two detached houses to accommodate 16 youngsters, aged six to 16. 

However Ian Wood, who lives near to the site, believes it is an unsuitable location for children to reside.

In a letter of objection, submitted to the council, Mr Wood said: “This location is not suitable to house 16 children aged six-16. Amenities for children in the location are limited and only accessible by crossing a major road. Due to the size of the site there will be limited ‘play’ area on the site itself. Access to the site is on what is already a major junction with regular car accidents.”

But Amblecote ward councillor Pat Martin, welcomed the plans and said she was pleased that the site was being developed.

She said: “I am very pleased that common sense prevailed and that this piece of land is now being used for housing and is no longer an eyesore in Amblecote which it has been for 10 years.”

A design and access statement, submitted to the council, states: “No internal or external alterations are necessary, as the standard and layout of the dwellings is more than favourable. The hard standing areas at the front will provide 12 parking spaces on the forecourt, which will be more than adequate for staffs and visitors.”

If approved, there would be eight beds in each of the care homes, for the children, who would live in the properties under appropriate supervision.

Each building would have eight en-suite bedrooms, with two lounges, two games rooms, two disabled wheelchair compliance toilets on the ground floor and two standard bathrooms on the first floor.

There would also be two kitchens with breakfast bars and dining areas, a utility room and two administration offices.