A GRADE-II listed building in Oldham will become a children's home after a change of use was approved at planning meeting.

Councillors voted unanimously in favour of plans for a terraced property near Alexandra Park to be changed from a dwelling into a home for disadvantaged children.

Applicant, Stepping Stones Childrens Homes, will now move forward with plans to turn No 9 Queens Road into a children's home for a maximum of five children.

The absence of any off-road parking associated with the listed building, the risk of anti-social behaviour and the use of the building were primary concerns of objectors.

An objector at the planning meeting on Wednesday, February 21, said: "We agree there is a need for care homes but we do not believe this building is appropriate for this usage.

"Our main concerns are that residents have not been given sufficient notice to make a considered response.

"The building grounds and surrounding area are unsuitable for a residential home. "There is no private parking and there is not outdoor space for children to play - only storage and steps.

"The proposed changes also cause significant damage to the heritage of the existing building at Queens Road frontage."

The application came before planning committee because the Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Shadab Qumer, is the landlord for the property.

There were no objections to the proposed change of use by the Highways officer, who said in the report that, despite no on-site parking, there are satisfactory parking options in the vicinity without causing adverse highway impacts.

The planning report said: "Whilst the genuine concerns of the objectors are acknowledged, it is difficult to substantiate a refusal based upon what is in effect conjecture. There is no evidence that anti-social behaviour would be an inevitable consequence of the use.

"On balance, it is considered the proposal is acceptable in principle and in terms of the appearance and impact upon the visual amenity of this site and surrounding area."