A COUNCIL will decide on Thursday whether to grant planning permission for a major new care home.

Plans for 61 sheltered units and 9 independent flats in two and three storey blocks on the site of the Esso petrol station and Vauxhall and Alfa Romeo motor trade sites on Old Park Road, Hitchin have been submitted to North Herts District Council by site owner Lisles.

Council officers have recommended a planning committee approve the application saying it “would enhance the appearance of this part of the town by removing both the unattractive commercial buildings and their associated uses”.