The applicant behind plans to open a children’s home in Bolton have appealed after the council  failed to rule on the proposal.

MRG Health Ltd submitted the plans in November for a property on Sharples Hall Fold, Astley Bridge.

They wanted the six bedroom property be used as a children’s home.

Under the plans a maximum of two youngsters would always stay there on a residential basis with members of staff on shift.

Communal facilities would have been used as if it was a single household.

Children would have stayed there on a medium to long term and the structure of the building would not be changed.

The property is a six bedroom detached one.

The ground floor would be used as an office, a communal lounge and a multipurpose room.

The first floor would have a communal lounge, kitchen diner, shared bathroom, a children’s bedroom and a bedroom for staff.

The second floor would contain a children’s bedroom and an additional children’s bedroom.

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In the plans, the applicants stated: “It is maintained there is no material difference between the existing and proposed use, hence planning permission is not required.

“This application is to ensure that the property acquired will meet the necessary planning requirements and also will able be to achieve Ofsted registration.”

They said their aims were to provide medium to long term stable placements for looked after children, to support and improve children’s life including access to high quality care, education and health services and to support children to engage in meaningful work to boost their experiences and provide a smooth transition into adulthood.

The applicants have now launched an appeal against the council’s non-determination of the plans.

The Planning Inspectorate has confirmed receipt of the appeal and has said this is valid.