A RETROSPECTIVE application to convert a Tilbury house into supported accommodation for vulnerable adults has been submitted to Thurrock Council.

The owner of the property at 7 Church Road is seeking permission to formally change the use of the property from a standard family home to a residential institution.

Planning documents show the home has already been operating as supported accommodation for up to five residents, prompting the need for retrospective approval.

The application, submitted by Dayspring Care, also includes plans for a single storey rear extension. The extension would enlarge the communal living area but would not increase resident numbers. Two existing outbuildings at the rear would remain in use, with the larger used as a staff office and the smaller as a storage shed.

A report to the council says the service supports individuals with "low to moderate care needs" who require supervision and assistance but do not need medical or high dependency care. Support is delivered within a "domestic, small scale and non institutional setting".

The applicants argue the change of use is appropriate for the area, which is made up primarily of similar residential properties. They say the building retains the appearance of a family home and that the proposed rear extension is modest, proportionate and will not impact neighbours or the character of the area.

Parking arrangements would remain unchanged, with two off street spaces available for staff and visitors. The statement says residents are unlikely to generate significant car use, and the site is well served by public transport.

The documents also highlight safety measures already in place, including safeguarding protocols and compliant fire detection systems. The proposed extension would be built to current building regulation standards.

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The applicant says the accommodation helps residents live independently and integrate into the community, adding that converting the property contributes to local need for supported housing.

"The use operates at a domestic scale and does not harm residential amenity," the statement concludes, describing the development as "sustainable and socially beneficial".

The application is now under consideration by Thurrock Council.