A SCHEME to convert a former care home into flats and the proposal to merge to urban conservation areas will be discussed by councillors this week.

When technical problem with the public link caused Swindon Borough Council’s planning committee meeting on August 11 to be cancelled, the agenda items were transferred to the meeting tomorrow. This was originally set for just two major applications – one for permission to built 1,550 houses in Great Stall East, the other pharmaceutical company Wasdell's 'science park' proposal near Wanborough.

Now members will also discuss Hiren Satra’s plan to convert Lanterns care home in Revell Close, Upper Stratton into 14 flats with an additional six-bed care unit for people with autism and learning difficulties.

The conversion of the former 17-bed care home would see another storey needed on two arms of the H-shaped building, and that proposal has drawn objections from at least 10 neighbours.

Members will also vote on a proposal to merge the Railway Village conservation area and the Railway Works area, immediately neighbouring but across the railway tracks, into one. The officers report says that would allow more attention a to be paid to preserving and regenerating both areas.

The meeting starts at 6pm and if the provided web link works the public will be able to follow the proceedings.