Wiltshire Council has justified its decision to buy a house in Devizes which was on the market for £850,000.

The council is to convert Melbourne House, off The Nursery in Bath Road, into offices to be used by the children’s service who will meet families of children at risk there.

An annexe will provide temporary emergency accommodation for children.

The plan was granted planning permission by Wiltshire Council’s Eastern area planning committee last Thursday, despite concerns by residents.

The Grade II listed former care home and hotel, was found after a nine month search by council officers.

Council officer Jan Thatcher said: “This property is ideal as it’s a very homely property and in an ideal location as it’s central for families and children.

But objector Penny Spink told the planning committee meeting: “This application has caused a great deal of concern and consternation among residents who live around Melbourne House.

“It is going to cost £1 million to buy Melbourne House and do the road works and one has to wonder is this the right time for the council to spend the money.

“Budgets are tight and the council says it has to save £58 million in the next two years.”

Residents are worried about road safety as the plans include widening the pavement.

The committee was told that two out of three council offices were not fit for purpose and the sale of those would pay for Melbourne House. The cost would come within the council’s approved capital programme.

Coun Jeff Ody said the choice of Melbourne House was contentious and he abstained from voting on the application which was passed by five votes in favour and none against.