The green light has been given to turn a house in Hitchin into a children's home, despite objections from neighbours.

North Herts Council has given the go-ahead for a house on the Westmill estate to become a children's home for up to three young people with learning difficulties or mental health issues.

A petition was signed by 23 neighbours objecting to a previous application to turn this house into a children's home.

Under the plans, two carers will be "living with the young people like one family", explains a North Herts Council report.

A supporting statement accompanying the latest application says: "The carers would be living in the house and would be part of the household.

"They would be providing support using a person-centred approach in the least intrusive way, with the emphasis on supporting [the young people] to make informed choices about their individual lifestyles and to find the joy in living, whatever their needs and circumstances.

"Thus, they would be helping them make informed choices about selecting training, life skills and off-site appointments."

As a result of the proposed change of use, conversion of the existing garage to habitable accommodation is proposed, with a window replacing the existing garage door.

The council has agreed to issue a Lawful Development Certificate for the change of use.