PLANS for a supported housing development have been approved despite objections.

Councillors gave the go-ahead to convert a home in Barrow's Rampside Road.

Six objections were lodged against the proposals, said to relate to fears over increased traffic and the 'future occupiers of the site'.

The plans were submitted by Golden Lane Housing, which builds housing for people with disabilities.

According to the proposals the existing house would be converted into three self-contained one bedroom units and support staff areas.

A single storey extension would be built to house a staff shower room and a utility room.

In a statement submitted alongside the plans, the applicants said: "We submit that the proposals make better use of the available land and provide a more useable layout of accommodation to provide three individuals with secure and private supported living."

According to the council a number of concerns were raised over the plans.

A report complied prior to plans being approved said: "Several concerns have been raised over the future occupiers of the site.

"However, planning has no control over residents of properties, particularly in this instance where no change of use class is to occur.

"Concerns have been raised over increased traffic to and from the property.

"However, given the size of the original host property were it to be fully occupied then it is likely that there should be a minimal increase in traffic from the proposed development."

There were also initial concerns over the impact of dormer windows on the neighbouring property but they have been removed from the plan.

Neighbours were also said to be concerned about the proposed site layout, with details initially omitted from public view in error.

Recommending the plans, the report said: "Taking account of the size of the original host property and the proposed alterations there should be minimal impact on neighbouring residential amenity from the proposal.

"A good standard of accommodation is to be provided to the future occupiers of the development along with support staff accommodation."