The owner of a assisted living home has been given the go-ahead to legally change its use.

The decision by a planning inspector appointed by the Secretary of State came after the property in Portswood was found to be operating as an assisted living dwelling for young people without the necessary planning permission.

Southampton City Council had refused a planning application and the applicant appealed.

The property, which can now be occupied by a maximum of five persons, including one staff member, was previously a house of multiple occupation.

The inspector said the property would not contribute to excessive parking demands in the surrounding area.

The inspector noted that the premises, in Portswood Road, contained four bedrooms and an on-call staff room.

The change of use was granted subject to conditions, including a limit on the number of residents and staff to five at any one time.