PLANS to turn a house into a children’s home may still go ahead, despite residents’ concerns about unruly youngsters.

A planning application for the redevelopment of Mathon House, in Jennett Tree Lane, Callow End, was rejected - in part because of the remoteness of the property.

Residents were also worried the home would result in thefts, trespassing and injuries to children and animals.

However, Dale Firkins, of Solace for Children, who wants to transform the site into a home for four children and nine staff, has appealed the Malvern Hills District Council's decision.

Mr Firkins hopes to help address the ‘critical shortage’ of accommodation for vulnerable youngsters across the county.

Tina Russell, assistant director of safeguarding services at Worcestershire County Council said: "This new facility in the Callow End area is part of our work to increase suitable care options here in Worcestershire.

"The needs of some children are met through residential services and currently too many of our children have to be placed out of county to meet their needs."

District councillor Elaine Newman, who represents the area, said: “I think more children’s homes are needed but it needs to be in the correct place with proper planning permission.

“Where they are they need a car. The bus doesn’t go down Jennett Tree Lane.

“If you needed to take the children out - to go to school for example - you would need a car as you won’t be able to access public transport.

“If they wanted to go to the swimming pool they have no bus that runs through.”

A planning statement submitted as part of the application stated that the county council currently provides 43 beds in 10 homes for looked-after children in Worcestershire.

It added: “It is therefore self-evident that there is a critical shortage of accommodation for the 600 plus vulnerable children in Worcestershire who require care.”

The decision report on the application said the development would result in increased traffic, due to the lack of local transport services.

The report added the site was not near sustainable transport links, shops or leisure and community facilities.

It also noted that the applicant had already damaged the character of the area, with sources claiming he has already created an access route and destroyed a hedge at the site.

Ofsted found that Worcestershire County Council’s children’s services were ‘inadequate’ last year.

Councillors voted to form a company to run local children’s services last month.

The county council is looking for foster carers and anyone who is interested can go on www.worcestershire.gov.uk/fostering