Children’s care home at 22 Muriel Road, Beeston

“The application seeks planning permission to change the use of the property from a House in Multiple Occupation (Class C4) to a residential children’s care home (Class C2). As stated on the submitted planning application form, the property is currently in use as a licensed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) Class C4, occupied by unrelated individuals sharing facilities.”

“The proposed change of use of use to a residential children’s home (Class C2) would provide specialist care and accommodation for up to three young people aged 7-17 years with Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (EBD). The property’s external appearance would remain unchanged, as there are no extensions or alterations of the existing elevations of the property (change of materials) proposed as part of the application.”

“The application site consists of a two storey semi-detached dwelling, with a garden of considerable size located to the rear (north-east), with a single storey flat roof detached garage located within. The adjacent road, Muriel Road, is located to the front (south-west) of the application site. The dwelling is located in a residential area with a mix of two storey and single storey properties.”

“In regards to adjacent neighbouring properties, 24 Muriel Road is the semi- detached dwelling adjoined to the side (north-west) elevation of 22 Muriel Road. Muriel Road is located to the side (south-east) of the application site, 21 Muriel Road is located to the front (south-west) of the application site and 75 Marlborough Road is located to the rear (north-east) of the application site.”

“The proposal makes it necessary to widen/extend the existing vehicular crossing over the footway of the public highway. These works shall be constructed to the satisfaction of the Highway Authority. You are, therefore, required to contact the County Council’s Customer Services to arrange for these works on telephone 0300 500 80 80 to arrange for these works to be carried out.”

“The applicant stated in their consolidated response to the consultee comments that they acknowledge the concerns raised about potential noise and anti-social behaviour associated with children requiring Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (EBD) care. The applicant confirmed they are in agreement with the proposed condition and have included a Noise and Anti- Social Behaviour Mitigation Plan for the home's operation.”

“Having considered all of the evidence before them, the Committee commenced the debate. Issues regarding antisocial behaviour and potential impacts on local amenity and policing capacity were also raised. Members noted that some of the comments raised did not pertain to Planning matters and referenced some of the well-regarded children’s care homes in the borough that are well-run.”