Children’s home at 26 Meadow Road, Wixams, Bedford

What was proposed

The application sought to change a four-bedroom dwelling from residential use to a registered children’s home for up to three young people.

“The Application: Planning permission is sought for the Change of Use from a dwellinghouse (Class C3) to Children’s Home (Class C2 Residential Institution). The proposed Children's Home would be registered with Ofsted and would provide accommodation for up to three young people aged between 14-18 years. . In addition, up to four members of staff will be employed, which includes 2 full-time equivalent positions.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The committee received representations from the ward councillor before considering the application.

What members discussed

Members wanted more input from Children’s Services and expressed disappointment that the applicant did not attend and speak at the meeting.

“The Committee expressed concern at the brevity of the response from Children’s Services and felt more input was needed from Children’s Services before they could reach a decision. They also expressed their disappointment that the applicant did not attend and speak at the meeting and urged both Children’s services and the applicant to engage fully when the application returned to the Committee.”

Minutes

The vote

Eight members voted for deferral, two voted against and none abstained.

“On being put to the vote, 8 Members voted for deferral, 2 members voted against deferral and 0 members abstained.”

Minutes

Why it was deferred

The committee deferred the application so further information could be provided, including an operational management plan, emergency plan and soundproofing plan.

“That the item be deferred to a future meeting of Development Management Committee to allow the applicant time to provide further information, including an Operational Management Plan, Emergency Plan and Soundproofing Plan.”

Minutes