PLANS to create a children's home in Test Valley could generate ten jobs if given the green light.

A planning application has been submitted to Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) to change the use of Lone Barn Studio, Stanbridge Lane, Awbridge, which would help "vulnerable" children aged 11 to 17.

If approved, children would be able to enjoy a short break in the home for up to 28 days and a maximum of three children would be cared for at one time.

The application was submitted by child care agency, Chances Gives Choices, and children would take part in activities while staying in the home.

It would be open from Monday to Sunday, as well as Bank Holidays.

Former deputy head at The Romsey School, Dorothy Baverstock, said: "Anything that supports vulnerable children I am for.

"I think this is such a testing time in their lives and to have a really nice and supportive environment for them would be very good.

"Putting it in the countryside would be lovely, but they do need to have transport to be able to incorporate them into the environment and link them to the community.

"That is very important for them and at that age they will be coming into Romsey for their secondary school education."

She added: "Children need to keep up with their peers outside of school, because a month in a child's life is a long time if they are away from their families."

Cllr Nik Daas, who represents Romsey Abbey on the borough council, said: "It is really good to hear there will be ten jobs for people to take on.

"If children are being given some respite this will allow them to build up their confidence again.

"When they go back to normal life they should be happier and it will be beneficial for their mental health as well."

Cllr Nick Adams-King, who represents Blackwater on the borough council, added: "Providing facilities like this for respite care is important.

"I am pleased it is being considered, but how it is managed is going to be really important and I am sure that will be picked up by the planning process."

Chances Gives Choices aims to provide a "unique package for the most vulnerable children and young people in the care system", according a statement from a spokesperson.

Test Valley Borough Council are due to decide on the planning application by January 16.