The site is the third Hamilton home to be converted into a residential facility
The proposed site for a new children’s home on Laverton Road, Leicester. (Image: LDRS)
Plans for a third children’s home in a part of Leicester have been given the green light in spite of fears that the city is already providing more than its “fair share”.
A controversial application to convert a house on Laverton Road, Hamilton, was approved at a meeting of Leicester City Council’s Planning Committee on Wednesday, March 16.
The proposals, which applicant Treasure Nest Ltd argued would provide three children with “an environment which allows them to thrive”, had attracted criticism from neighbours, being the third children’s home in a 400-metre radius.
One site, on Bryony Road, just a one-minute walk from the proposed facility, has approval to look after up to three children. Officers confirmed internal works have commenced and a registration with Ofsted is in the pipeline.
A site further away on Farnley Road has approval to house a further two children.
Residents attended the meeting to voice their concerns.
Harish Patel told the committee he had concerns about parking provision, staff comings and goings, and the impact on neighbouring houses.
He said: “This is a very quiet residential area. How is that going to be affected if we have got these kids residing within the property?
“We can envisage an increase in noise, activity, and disturbance, which will impact on the health and wellbeing of neighbours.”
Councillor Dr Lynn Moore (Labour) reminded members these are “normal kids” who have “had a bad lot in life”.
Several applications to develop children’s homes had recently been refused by officers at the city council, as no need for the facilities could be identified.
The city has needed around 100 spaces for vulnerable children in recent years. As of January, there were 122 available. Officers predict the demand will decrease.
However, there is a specific demand for applications from “experienced providers” as not all registered beds are currently of the quality required by the local authority.
Councillor Patrick Kitterick (Green) said the development on Laverton Road could put extra pressure on the city’s social services.
He said: “I absolutely believe in the principle that the city should provide its own facilities.
“What we are seeing here is a pattern where the city is becoming a repository for children from other areas.
“This is pushing it too far. The city is taking substantially more than its fair share of children.”
Ultimately, plans were approved. However, permission came with the condition that only Treasure Nest Ltd can run the service and the site must be returned to a residential property should operations cease.