‘Invalid’ plan for apartments back on the agenda - but police remain opposed

If approved the scheme, in Lyde Green, Cradley, would see the conversion of a residential care home into eight apartments providing supported living for people with a range of difficulties including autism and dementia.

Council planners refused to rule on the application in early September after concluding a required aspect had not been submitted.

The plan is now back on the agenda after further information was supplied about CCTV in response to concerns from West Midlands Police.

The force’s designing out crime officer, Bob Manson, said: “The company has now addressed the security issues, from reading the security report the CCTV will be monitored by staff on site, the CCTV images would need to be stored in a secure location and be password protected to comply with GDPR.”

Despite the additional details police are still against the application, Mr Mason added: “Each vulnerable person at that address would have different needs, what prevention/security measures are in place to stop a dementia patient from going missing.

“Other concerns are no mention of a lift in the premises, if a fire was to take place how would a vulnerable person who is wheelchair bound get down from the first or loft area or any other approved method to get them to safety.”

In a statement supporting the application, PACE Studios Limited said: “The apartments will be thoughtfully designed to ensure accessibility and safety for vulnerable residents.

“Ultimately, this proposal aims to transform an underutilised building into a vital resource for the community, providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment that addresses the housing crisis faced by vulnerable individuals.”

Designers added that regulations on fire escape design will be implemented, including clear evacuation routes and appropriately placed emergency lighting.