Sandbach Town Council has objected to plans for a property at Wheelock to be used as assisted living accommodation for vulnerable people.

Redside Capital Resources Limited has applied to Cheshire East for permission to convert three flats at 474 Crewe Road into supported living accommodation for four residents.

But Sandbach Town Council argues the property, which is at a narrow point of Crewe Road, is not suitable for vulnerable residents.

The application, which has been recommended for approval, will be considered by Cheshire East's southern planning committee next week.

In a letter to the committee, the town council states: "The single access for the property leads onto a busy main road – this is not appropriate for vulnerable residents.

"Members believe that this is an unsatisfactory use for the property. They are concerned about the amenity of vulnerable residents on this busy main road. For example, the ground floor flat at the front depicts a bed with the head of the resident right next to the window that looks onto the road and footpath. The needs of residents don't appear to have been considered when planning the layout of facilities in the building."

The council adds: "Members hold serious concerns over fire safety – there is only one exit in total and no exit from the rear or upstairs of the property."

This is an issue also raised by ward councillor Laura Crane (Lab), who called in the application.

Cllr Laura Crane

She also raised concerns over a lack of parking.

Eleven residents have also objected to the proposal.

In a report due to go to next Wednesday's (November 30th) committee meeting, Cheshire East's planning officer states: "The facility allows residents to live independently but with the added support, should it be required, to enable residents to be integrated back into society and live independently.

"Each resident will have their own tenancy agreement with a social landlord and the building is managed by this social landlord. The support packages will be provided by a health care provider."

The officer says four people will lives in the property and there is adequate garden space for them.

He adds: "Concerns have been expressed about the busy road and proximity to the public house. Whilst the residents will be free to come and go from the property, this is not considered to be a reason that warrants refusal of the application and would be a management issue for staff."

The officer concluded the proposal would entail very limited changes to the external appearance of the building; that adequate parking provision and safe site access can be provided and the impact on residential amenity is acceptable.

He recommended it be approved.

The scheme will be considered at Wednesday's (November 30) meeting of the southern planning committee which takes place at 10am at Crewe Municipal Buildings.