PERMISSION has been granted to turn a former nursing home in Aston fields into a block of flats.

The developers, Morris Nash developments, are converting the site on Old Station Road into seven one bed and eight two bed apartments.

The former St Georges Nursing Home closed in 2017 and is a Grade II listed building but since its closure has remained derelict and attracted antisocial behaviour.

The proposed plans were met with a unanimous decision to grant full planning permission at Bromsgrove District planning committee last night, despite parking concerns.

Prior to the meeting the plans were met with eighteen objections by residents, mainly surrounding the issue of parking.

Eighteen car spaces have been proposed, therefore not taking into consideration if more than one occupier of the flat owns a vehicle or has visitors.

William Taylor, also of Warwick hall Gardens said: “I think that this new planning application should be denied until proper provision is made for not only the new residents parking but also their visitors.

“I really don't understand why there is a reluctance to make a large car park in the grounds, as this would solve the issue to everyone's satisfaction. Unless of course the long term plan is to put even more buildings there in the future.

“We, the residents, are delighted that 'The Hall' will live again but only if the developers accede to our and the Highways Agency views on the proper provision of parking within the boundary.”

During the meeting Sharon Williams, principal planning officer, said there is a small shortfall of parking, but each unit will have at least one space and also have an electrical charging point.

Elliot Nash, director of Morris Nash developers, said: “We have consulted and satisfied transport needs. Statistics show 80% of people who rent one or two bed accommodation have one car or no cars, and there are plenty of amenities.”

Councillor Siobhan Robinson of Bromsgrove Central supports the development but also has concerns for parking. She said: “18 car parking spaces isn’t enough for homes as there is no other off-road parking on Warwick Hall Gardens and Old Station Road. There should be at least one space per bedroom, therefore 23 spaces not 18.”

The new block of flats will be rented accommodation, targeting the younger population of Bromsgrove.