A nursing home deemed “unfit for purpose” is set for a “much-needed” makeover, which will provide 76 rooms for those who require care.

Harrow Council’s planning committee unanimously approved proposals to redevelop Clavering Nursing Home, in Royston Grove, Pinner.

Despite minor concerns over the increased size and the building’s design – as well as objections from neighbours – it was seen as too good an opportunity to turn down.

Cllr Stephen Greek, who sits on the committee, said: “I can understand some of the objections, but I think this is a well-designed and sensitively-designed scheme.

“It’s a clear improvement on what is there now, and it is very worthy of support.”

He was backed-up by Cllr John Hinkley, a backbench councillor representing Hatch End – the ward where the home is situated.

“It is bigger [than the old home], but that is just the way of the world,” Cllr Hinkley said.

“The previous building was deemed unfit for purpose and seems as if there is no other option but to build this in its place.

“The Hatch End Residents’ Association have said that, while it might be big, at least it will look nice.

“We will all need some provision of healthcare in the coming years – and I fully support this scheme.”

Richard Henley, representing the applicant, TLC Group Ltd, explained that the home will provide 12 per cent of the borough’s care home needs in a “modern, 21st century environment”.

He added that parking will not be an issue, since, based on historical evidence, there should be no more than three or four cars each hour making use of the 16 spaces provided.

Cllr Norman Stevenson was unconvinced by this claim, but he agreed that the positive aspects of the scheme outweighed his concerns.

A similar approach was adopted by Cllr Sachin Shah, who said the net increase in accommodation meant the demolition of an adjacent building, ‘Little Orchard’, could be accepted.