PLANS for a 72-bed residential home in Stanley are being recommended for approval, despite objections over possible parking problems.

Derwentside District Council gave planning permission for a Gary Lewis Care Centre in Wear Road last year, but the company has since submitted an amended application. Minor modifications mean part of the building could be used as a young disabled persons' unit.

The eastern wing of the building needs to be up to four metres wider, to create larger bedrooms for people with wheelchairs. But one resident is concerned that the home will have 72 bedrooms and only 21 parking spaces.

A letter, sent to the council, said: "The residents of Wear Road already have limited parking opportunities due to the overspill from the Stanley Day Centre. I envisage the situation becoming worse, considering staff, residents and visitors at the new care home.

"I have spoken to several neighbours regarding this matter and none realised how large the new home would be and how many residents would be housed."

The council's development control committee meets tomorrow and planning officers are recommending the plan be approved.

A report due before the committee said: "Proposed amendments to the scheme would not generate additional traffic and therefore issue should be not be taken with the question of parking at this stage."