Care home decision overturned after appeal

Salford-based planning, development and heritage consultants Paul Butler Associates has won full costs on behalf of a private client in a successful appeal against the refusal of planning permission for the change of use of a house to a residential care home.

The Coach House, in the estate of Grade 2-listed Millbrook House off Manchester Road in Tintwistle, will provide a family-style living environment for up to six young people with learning difficulties.

Paul Butler's client was the owner of the Millbrook House estate. The amount to be paid by High Peaks council to cover the cost of appeal has yet to be finalised. The decision follows a recent change in appeal procedure whereby costs of written appeals can be reclaimed by the winning side.

Sarah Smith, associate director at Paul Butler Associates, said: "We are pleased that the Planning Inspector agreed with our view that the care home will not result in an increase in vehicular or pedestrian movements. The local planning authority's claims to the contrary were unsubstantiated and unreasonable and our client is obviously delighted with the award of full costs."