A children's home is set to open in a conservation area despite the concerns of neighbours.

The home is to open in the Garden Suburbs conservation area in Hollins after a certificate of lawful development was issued. 

An application for the certificate was submitted to Oldham Council on July 23 and was approved on Monday (November 25).

The plans outlined a change of use from a residential dwelling to a children's home for up to three children, three carers and a manager.

Only two staff members would sleep overnight, working on a rota basis.

The application received nine objections from neighbours who said they were concerned over matters such as parking, the development being in a conservation area and the noise of children. 

One comment said: "There is only room for one car on the drive and if it is a family size car it will more likely be sticking out onto the pavement.

"Also these houses have a very poor sound insulation between the properties.

"The dividing wall between the two properties comprises of a single 4in brick wall and plaster.

"So the noise of the children and minders will be constantly heard throughout the day and night. with that many people in the property doors will be slammed and the sound will reverbarate into next door.

"Furthermore having done refurbs on my property I would like to inform you that the floor and ceiling joist from both properties are butted together so any running ,stamping or banging by the people in no 19 will sound as they are in no 17.

"This is totally out of order for the people living at no 17.

"Hope my comments will help you make the right decision as everyone has a right to a peaceful and quiet life in their own house."

However, after a review of objections the planning officer found they were not related to matters of the legality of the development, and so could not be considered.

The officer also said that the number of people that would be expected in the property at any one time is the same as would be expected if occupied by a single family unit. 

The planning officer cited a legal precedent which establishes that the change of use from a dwelling to a children's home is non material. 

The officer agreed that the change of use in this case was also non material, meaning it is therefore a lawful development and the home can open.