PLANS to convert a former outdoor store in Halesowen into self-storage units have been given the go-ahead despite objections from people living nearby.

The former Towsure Outdoor Leisure Superstore on Long Lane will be let to a self-storage firm.

The store, which was originally a B&Q, closed in February and operates online and from its Sheffield HQ. It withdrew a downsizing plan which would have split the building into two units, with one remaining as a store and the other becoming a self-storage facility, after nearby residents said the move would lower the value of their homes and “affect their mental state.”

Ten neighbours objected to the new proposal to convert the whole building into self-storage with issues raised including noise and disturbance from vehicles, loss of privacy to gardens and worsening air quality due to vehicles idling.

They also complained that the junction of Long Lane and Felton Lane is a hot spot for accidents and the application will worsen the situation, that the site is a busy area due to proximity to a school with inconsiderate parking commonplace, devaluing properties and loss of retail space.

Planners at Dudley Council gave the storage company the go-ahead to operate from 8am to 8pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 4pm Sunday/Bank Holidays, the same as when it was a shop.

They said in a report: "The proposal will not result in additional vehicle movements, noise and disturbance."

They added: "Most visitors to the site will be via private car."

The car park fronting Long Lane will be retained providing 54 car parking spaces.

Parking for HGVs and vans will be provided along the north elevation of the building, accessed via Feldon Lane. The car park will be subdivided with a gate between car parking (Long Lane) and HGV/van parking (Feldon Lane).