A THIRD attempt to create a new 24-bed care home in Southbourne has won the support of council planning officers.

Auckland Care is seeking approval to create accommodation “primarily for people with dementia” at 13-15 Seafield Road, Bournemouth.

This would involve alterations and change of use for two detached houses at the front of the site, as well as three bungalows more recently constructed as in-fill development at the rear.

In both 2011 and 2012, applications to demolish the houses and build a three storey 38-bed car home were rejected by the borough.

However a report by planning officer Simon Gould states that the new scheme is deemed acceptable.

"In this instance the scale of the proposed physical works are considered sensitive and in keeping with the host properties and the proposed change of use to a C2 care home will not lead to an over-concentration of such uses in the locality," the report states.

The scheme has 24 letters of objection, with many neighbours complaining about the possible impact on parking.

In one, area resident Sarah Hole said: "I live close to this beautiful area and feel this proposed development will be over saturated with buildings.

"The attractiveness of the surrounding area, and the safety also, would be compromised with cars spilling onto the roads nearby with a house of proposed multiple occupants."

Auckland Care owner Lynn Hart said in a statement to the board that the firm's other care home in nearby Ken Road has not had a resident capable of driving in 30 years, so the proposed eight parking spaces would be adequate.

Concerns have also been raised about overlooking and the introduction of a commercial use in a residential area.

Council officers have dismissed the complaints, but due to the number the scheme will be discussed at the borough planning board by councillors on Monday, May 21.

In her statement Ms Hart said: "We only take residents into our home who are at the top end of vulnerability, many of whom need help with all aspects of daily living, have lost cognitive ability to problem solve, and would not be able to cope with every day life.

"This facility will specialise in dementia and mental health, so therefore the flow of space and ease of access around the building will be an important consideration.

"A variety of environments in which a number of activities should be provided such as; the stimulation of awareness, physical exercise, mental stimulation, taking part in and having interest in daily life, creativity, maintenance of skills and confidence and expression of emotions can take place safely."

Aucklands Care says the bungalows will be used for less dependent residents and for couples where only one partner requires support from dementia services in the main buildings.