Plans to convert a Coalville property into a 'desperately needed' children's home have been presented to North West Leicestershire District Council.

The application has been made by Leicester-based Happy Group Ltd - which says its homes offer planned care and a range of opportunities that take children and young people from 8 to 18.

Happy Group's website says the company is committed to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for children and young people to enable them to develop secure attachments.

The scheme aims to turn the property at 175 Greenhill Road into a children's home for up to three children and two staff on shift.

A planning statement, accompanying the application, says facilities such as this are needed in Leicestershire.

It adds: "There is a desperate need to provide high-quality, safe and homely environments for children who otherwise will find themselves in unregulated children's homes.

"It is evident that there is a lack of this provision within the area, and to support the growing concerns of Ofsted, the aim is this proposal will help support and encourage future developments to support children of need."

Photo: Lux Architecture/North West Leicestershire District Council

The statement explains Happy Group's intentions for the property, which has recently been modified.

It adds: "The house will provide a full-time residence for up to three children between the ages of 8-17, in which two adult carers will occupy the property at all times, operating on a shift pattern.

"Allowance is also made for a home manager, who will be a regular visitor to the home for administrative and supervision purposes.

"There are five first-floor bedrooms, of which three will be occupied by the children, with the remaining two bedrooms being for the carers.

"The children will occupy Bedrooms 3, 4 & 05. This will allow for the communal bathroom to be for child use only.

"The ground floor will provide the main living amenities with the open plan kitchen dining area providing the main socialising space. The separate TV room will provide a comfortable shared space for the children, whilst the playroom will provide a fun active space.

"The study will become the secure manager's office this room will be locked out of hours, and used by the staff during the day, providing a quiet space for visitors to attend the home.

"The shift pattern for carers will be 24hr shifts with changeover arranged for 11am with a duration of 30 minutes. The changeovers are planned to avoid busy periods during the weekdays and limit disturbance to neighbours.

"The manager will be on site during daytime only within key times between 9am-5pm, unless required out of hours in emergency."