Children's care home at 24 Brookdale Grove, Huyton, Knowsley

“This application proposes a change of use of an existing residential dwelling (Use Class C3) to a children’s care home (Use Class C2), for a maximum of 2 no children…”

“This application proposes the change of use from the existing residential dwelling (Use Class C3) to form a children’s care home (Class C2). The care home would be for up to 2 children and no more than 2 care staff and a manager will be present at any one time during the day. This may include children with emotional and behavioural difficulties, who may reside at the property.”

“The application site is an irregular shaped site, located in the middle of a modern housing estate on Brookdale Grove. The dwelling is a 3 bedroom semi detached 2 storey dwelling house with one of the bedrooms located in the attic space. There is a small garden area and hardstanding at the front of the site and an irregular shaped garden at the rear.”

“There are other dwellings to the north, south, east and west of the site. The surrounding area is residential in nature with access to the area via Sleaford Road and Filton Road.”

“The proposed use (Class C2) is classed as a “Residential Institution” therefore, it is considered that such uses are acceptable in principle in this location and are a residential type use. The proposed development would be suitable to accommodate the development proposed and would not result in an existing dwelling having a care home on both sides or two adjoining properties being used as care homes.”

“The development is acceptable in principle and would not cause unacceptable harm in relation to highway safety, the character of the area, crime and anti – social behaviour or the amenity of neighbouring properties. This is subject to conditions relating to a limit on the number of children that can be cared for at the property.”

“Local Highway Authority (Knowsley Council) – No objection subject to a cycle parking condition.”

“Merseyside Police Architectural Liaison Officer –There are no objections raised from Merseyside Police to the proposed application.”

“The application was publicised by letters sent to 18 neighbouring properties and by a site notice. Seven objections have been received from individual residents (from 7 different addresses).”

“Lack of parking spaces • Additional traffic impacts. • The site is not suitable for a children’s home • Potential for crime and anti-social behaviour • Increased noise and activity • Impact on residential amenity and character of the area • Approval could set a precedent. • The application lacks supporting evidence such as a detailed Transport Statement, Noise Impact Assessment, or Management Plan to demonstrate adequate mitigation.”

“The Committee considered the report of the Executive Director (Place) on the above application for planning permission.”

“RESOLVED – That the application be granted subject to the conditions set out in the attached schedule, or such additional or amended conditions that the Head of Planning & Building Control in consultation with the Chair of Planning Committee considers appropriate.”