Children’s home at 51 Windermere Avenue, Hornchurch

“Description: Retrospective change of use from single dwellinghouse to C2 (Ofsted regulated residential children’s home to accommodate not more than 2 children between the ages of 8 and 17).”

“Site and Surroundings 3.1 Application site comprises one half of a semi-detached pair. The site is neither listed, nor within a Conservation Area.”

“Proposal 3.2 Consent is sought for the change of use of the premises (retrospective) to provide care for up to two children. The use commenced operating in May 2023 and is staffed by three adults who work on a shift basis caring for the resident(s). There are no external changes to the building or internal layout.”

“VI. In view of the limited scale of the use and low occupancy, officers consider that any noise or disturbance would be capable of being controlled through planning condition.”

“1 SUMMARY OF KEY REASONS FOR RECOMMENDATION 1.1 The proposed use of the property subject to safeguarding conditions is considered to comply with the objectives of the Havering Local Plan 2016-2031, the NPPF and London Plan. Based on the limited occupancy proposed which can be restricted through condition the proposed use would not be distinguishable from any other lawful use of the premises, for example C3(B)”

“It is accepted that, in light of the current position, that the proposal would conflict with Policy 6(i) as a result. However, as set out elsewhere in this report, the level of harm arising from the current use is considered to be limited.”

“Quality of accommodation/suitability 7.11 A key requirements of Policy 6 of the Havering Local Plan 2016-2031 is that the proposed building is suitable for the intended occupiers in terms of the standard of facilities, the level of independence, and the provision of support and/or care. It also requires that an appropriate level of amenity space is provided to meet the needs of the intended occupants taking account of the need for an attractive outlook.”

“The following were consulted regarding the application: 5.3 LBH Highway Authority – No objection made. Environmental Health – No objection made subject to condition Fire Brigade – No objection made LBH Waste / Recycling – No objection made DOCO – SBD Condition recommended…”

“(OFFICER RESPONSE: Mindful of the limited scale of the proposed use an SBD condition as recommended is not considered to be proportionate or reasonable. Other conditions where recommended have been outlined at Para 2.2. However should the Committee feel that this condition is necessary, this can be negotiated with the applicant with a suitable timeframe for accreditation/measures being implemented).”

“Added Parking Pressure and movement of vehicles especially at 23:00 on shift turn overs. • Noise & Disturbance resulting from use. • Fear of crime • Increase in ASB due to age range of the children • Increase demands on the Police due to increase in ASB • Can’t simply change a residential property into a care home, with high risk children. • Lack of info on how the care home will be set up. • Movement and hand over during shift times early in the morning and late at night…”

“Objections - Police attending premises/ASB - Negative impact on community - Potential noise/disturbance in particular during changeover - Increased parking pressure - Fear of crime/vandalism…”

“The Committee considered an officer recommendation to defer the item to a later meeting. Following a brief discussion, the recommendation was unanimously agreed.”