Solihull Property Proposed as Children's Care Home for Three Youngsters
A detailed plan to transform a detached five-bedroom property on Yew Tree Lane in Solihull into a specialized children's care home has been formally submitted to local planning authorities. The application, lodged by applicant Chantelle Duggins, seeks to establish a residential care facility for up to three children, ranging in age from five to seventeen years old.
Proposed Layout and Operational Details
According to the planning statement prepared by agents Planning Geek Ltd, the property will allocate three of its first-floor bedrooms exclusively for the children's use. The ground floor will be dedicated to communal areas, including a lounge, reception room, and a combined kitchen and dining space. Additionally, a staff office will be situated on the ground floor, while a sleepover room for overnight caregivers has been designated on the first floor.
Importantly, the proposal specifies that no extensions or external alterations to the building are planned, maintaining the existing structure's appearance. The home will operate with a consistent adult presence, typically featuring one to two staff members on-site at all times to ensure round-the-clock supervision. A registered manager will be employed to work standard weekday hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Visitor Management and Planning Applications
The application outlines that external visitors, such as health professionals, social workers, or family members, may make occasional visits. However, the frequency of these visits is not expected to exceed more than one at any given time and is considered comparable to standard residential use of the property.
Two separate applications have been filed with Solihull Council. The first, submitted in December, is a change of use application under code PL/2025/02310/PPFL. The second, lodged in February, seeks a certificate of lawful development under code PL/2026/00376/CLOPUD. If granted, this certificate would legally establish the home for planning purposes, provide protection against enforcement actions, and effectively supersede the change of use application.
This proposal aims to address the growing need for residential care options for children in the Solihull area, offering a stable and supportive environment within a community setting. The planning process will now undergo review to assess compliance with local regulations and community impact.
