Go-ahead to convert house into care home for children despite concerns over noise

Controversial plans for a house to be converted into a care home for children with special needs in Gloucestershire has been approved. Heartlands Group Ltd has been granted temporary permission to change the use of 18 Onslow Road in Newent for three years.

The small care home would house a maximum of three children between seven and 17 years old with learning disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder, developmental delay, epilepsy and moderate learning difficulties. There would be 11 carers on a shift rota with three members of staff per shift.

However, dozens of residents objected to the proposals amid concerns over noise and that the care setting would be a challenging environment. Phil Goulding, a resident speaking on behalf of objectors in Onslow Road, said the planning report was flawed.

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He told the Forest of Dean District Council development management committee on April 9 that the scheme has a potential for "challenging and dynamic human interaction". And raised concerns tha there have been 58 violent and sexual offences and 16 of antisocial behaviour and public disorder in a radius of around 300 metres from the site.

“We believe that statements used to inform the committee are misleading. Councillors, a business proposal does not create a normal functioning household. Please consider carefully what business comes next.”

Wesley Baker, agent for the applicant, said the proposal is to provide care for up to three children who have ended up in the care system for no fault of their own. “The aim of this home is to provide as normal living conditions as possible for the children,” he said.

“This is why we feel the home and location such as this is perfect to provide that opportunity.” He said supported accommodation could be run under its current use for up to six adults.

“There’s little to no change to the material use,” he added.

Councillor Julia Gooch (Progressive Independents, Newent and Taynton) said she said the area was developed as a residential and excluded business use. “This is a for profit business venture employing 11 members of staff working shift patterns throughout the day and night," she said.

While Cllr Julie Hudson (LD, Newent and Taynton) raised concerns about the need for space at the site. “The garden is quite a limited space, part paved and the lawn is on a slope," she said.

“It’s not ideal or beneficial for children to use their energy or if necessary let off steam.”

And Cllr Gill Moseley (LD, Newent and Taynton) said children in care need the best possible care society can provide. She said the site was too close to nearby houses and lacked the necessary space.

Councillor John Francis (I, Longhope and Huntley) proposed granting temporary permission for three years to allow the council to assess the noise and any antisocial behaviour issues that may arise from its use. The committee voted to approve the scheme by eight votes to two with one abstention.

There will be no changes to the appearance of the building and no changes to its internal layout.