Small care facility at 11 Eagles Chase, Littlehampton

What was proposed

The application proposed changing a dwelling into a care facility for up to two children aged 12 to 16, with two full-time carers.

“DESCRIPTION OF APPLICATIONThis application seeks a change of use from a dwelling to a small care facility for up to 2 children, with 2 full-time carers. SITE CHARACTERISTICSThe site is a two storey, semi-detached property with a garden to the rear, and parking space to the front. CHARACTER OF LOCALITYThe site is in a residential area at the end of a cul-de-sac. REPRESENTATIONS Littlehampton Town Council - Objection.”

Officer report

Officers’ recommendation

Officers recommended approval because the proposal complied with relevant policies and would not harm the area, neighbouring amenity, highways or parking.

“HIGHWAYS AND PARKING The site has two parking spaces on a driveway to the front of the house. During the day, three adults would be present at the property, and so there may be a need for a vehicle to be parked on the street. There is no shortage of on-street parking in the area, and it is noted that occupiers of houses within C3 use could equally own more cars than can be accommodated within their curtilage. The proposals would not have an unacceptable impact on parking.”

“SUMMARY The proposal is in accordance with relevant development plan policies, and is recommended for approval LU/188/25/PL”

Officer report

What consultees said

The town council and Environmental Health objected, while the National Park authority made no comment.

“South Down National Park - No comment. COMMENTS ON CONSULTATION RESPONSES: Comments noted. POLICY CONTEXT Designation applicable to site: Built Up Area Boundary Arun Valley IRZ DEVELOPMENT PLAN POLICIES Arun Local Plan 2011 - 2031: DDM1D DM1 Aspects of form and design quality DDM4D DM4 Extensions&alter to exist builds(res and non-res) QEDM1QE DM1 Noise Pollution QESP1QE SP1 Quality of the Environment TSP1T SP1 Transport and Development PLANNING POLICY GUIDANCE: NPPFNational…”

Officer report

What residents said

Five nearby occupiers objected over the location, neighbourhood character, vehicle movements, parking, noise, disturbance and loss of housing.

“No. objections were received from nearby occupiers raising concerns that: - The location is a quiet residential area with mostly older or retired people, and is unsuitable for the development. - The use would be out of keeping with the character of the neighbourhood. - More vehicle movements would occur as a result of the proposals, and increased need for parking, which is not sufficient on the site. - The proposals would result in an increase in noise and disturbance.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The Senior Planning Officer presented the application, and there were no public speakers.

Members’ discussion

Members discussed permanence, staffing, noise, supervision, social facilities, business use, lawful development and the proposal’s similarity to a family home.

“Members discussed the proposed change of use to a small care facility. Councillor Kelly queried whether the children would live at the property permanently and questioned the difference between this use and a typical family home. Councillor Partridge clarified that the application was for up to two children, not necessarily two at all times.”

“Councillor Kelly reiterated that the proposal was similar to a family home, differing only in that care would be provided by staff. Some members indicated they were not comfortable supporting the application due to Environmental Health concerns.”

Minutes

The committee’s vote

The recommendation was proposed and seconded before the committee resolved to approve the application conditionally.

“The recommendation was proposed by Councillor Blanchard-Cooper and seconded by Councillor Gunner.”

Minutes

The permission’s conditions

The permission limits occupation to two children plus care staff and requires commencement within three years and compliance with approved plans.

“Reason: To comply with Section 91 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended). 2The development hereby approved shall be carried out in accordance with the following approved plans:”

“Reason: For the avoidance of doubt and in the interests of amenity and the environment in accordance with Arun Local Plan policies D DM1 and QE DM1. 3The care home hereby approved shall be occupied by a maximum of 2 No. children, plus care LU/188/25/PL”

Officer report