AN extension to a Stourbridge care home, which its owners said was needed to stop its residents being made homeless, has been rejected over fears of access for emergency vehicles.

Hillcroft Nursing Home in Wordsley application was thrown out despite planning officers’ recommendation it be approved after Dudley councillors raised concerns over access for emergency vehicles. 

At a previous meeting of Dudley Development committee, agents for the care facility argued the extension would replace beds lost after new regulations prohibited shared bedrooms – saying the new rooms would ensure it remained financially viable.

But following a site visit, councillors turned down the application.

Cllr Jackie Cowell, explaining why she voted against the plans said: “My concern is about parking but because there is not sufficient space for emergency vehicles and refuse vehicles. So my view is we should turn it down on highways grounds.

Her comments were supported by Cllr Elaine Taylor who said lack of parking would impact on the local roads.

The original plans were opposed by a 86 signature petition, 30 letters of objection and submissions by five councillors including the council leader, Patrick Harley.

Opponents said it would be overbearing, not in character and would impact on surrounding listed buildings in the Wordsley Church Conservation Area.

But in their report to the committee, planning officers say the home had submitted an updated plan making changes to its original application. 

In recommending approval of the extension, planning officers have said: “It is considered on balance that the development would lead to less than substantial harm to the significance of a designated heritage asset namely the Wordsley Church Conservation Area and the public benefit of the proposal would outweigh this harm. 

“In addition, there would not be any significant detrimental impact on surrounding residents and as such, in this instance it is recommended that the application be approved.”

The development committee rejected the application by seven votes to one at its meeting on Wednesday (December 5).