AN application to turn a detached house in Halesowen into a residential home for youngsters with emotional and learning difficulties has lead to fears children in a nearby school may be harmed.

The plan to convert the property on Springfield Road has also raised concerns about parking and traffic problems as staff change shifts.

The application to Dudley Council would turn the five bedroom house into a residential unit for three youngsters between the ages of eight and 18 years old.

The property would accommodate young people “experiencing developmental difficulties and problematic early life experiences including attachment disorder, emotional behaviours and moderate to low learning difficulties,” according to a report drawn up for councillors.

Nearby residents in the area have opposed the scheme saying there are already traffic problems and staff changes could lead to further congestion, despite the former family home having four existing parking places.

The report also states because the site is adjacent to Olive Hill Primary School residents fear very young children could be affected by the actions or influenced by young people with behavioural problems.

Recommending councillors approve the change of use, planning officers state: “It is considered that the size and scale of the building, the lack of any significant alterations and the nature of the care whereby a small number of children/young people live to offer a stable environment is akin to a residential use.

“There would be space within the site to provide amenity areas and parking for the proposal, and although fears of anti-social behaviour have been raised, West Midlands Police have not objected to the application.”

Members of Dudley’s Development Control Committee will meet on September 11 to decide if the application is approved.