PLANS have been put forward to create a children's home.

Proposals have been sent for an addition to the existing extension at Windlehurst Cottage on Hard Lane to accommodate the change of use.

The building has been used as a children's contact centre. 

A design and access statement, drawn up on behalf of Torus Housing, says: "The new proposed scheme is for a refurbishment and extension of the existing unit into four bed spaces upstairs and communal facilities with staff offices/stayover rooms also on the ground floor.

"The scheme aims to provide the children with safe facilities to learn and gain life skills.

"The site is currently occupied by Torus Housing, as a children’s contact centre".

The statement adds: "The existing building stands out alone within its immediate area with large green spaces on two sides.

"The attached property to the proposal is a dog boarding/day care business and very little changes have been made to the façade of the existing building with several outbuildings being erected instead".

There is a small car park for seven regular and one disabled space at the site.

The plans add: "The bedrooms provide a safe space for the tenants to live whilst encouraging the use of the communal space with other residents to gain skills taught by the staff members who are on site to provide support.

"The staff office is positioned to allow visibility over the coming and goings of the residents in the communal areas.

"The building will have other security measures (TBC) to ensure the safety of the residents".

They conclude: "We believe this scheme provides a safe space for the children/ young adults of St Helens and will give them ample opportunity to grow and strike out on their own.

"Given the current use of the scheme, we believe the application would not have an adverse impact on the local residential area and the extension will compliment the existing facades".

Standard consultation on plans is open to the public until Tuesday, August 23. A determination deadline has been set for September 16.