Children’s care home at 6 Edgemoor Drive, 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. No staff would sleep on site, and at night there would be 2 staff members who would work a night shift and would be awake through the night.”

“The application site is located at the end of a terrace on Edgemoor Drive, in the Field Lane Estate. There is a low brick wall which runs around the front and side of the site with a wooden fence at the rear. There is also a single storey rear extension and detached outbuilding at the property.”

“The surrounding area is generally residential in nature and it is considered to be a sustainable location with local services and access to bus stops within 250m of the site.”

“96/00246/APP - ERECTION OF SINGLE STOREY EXTENSION TO REAR OF Dwelling – Granted - 25.06.1996”

“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. This is subject to the use not having an unacceptable impact on the amenity of neighbours or the character of the area.”

“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 to the number of children that can be cared for at the propertyand to ensure that the property is operated in accordance with the supporting statement.”

“Potential for Crime and Anti-social Behaviour • Noise and activity • Impact on Residential Amenity and Character of the Area • Concerned about current tenants being forced to leave • The house is too small • I am concerned that more person could occupy the property. • I am concerned about the lack of experience of the company.”

“Still object to the proposal despite the change from 3 to 2 children. • The proposal would harm the character of a quiet residential area. • Lack of parking/ highway safety. • Children may potentially kick footballs and play on the road and pavement causing nuisance. • The noise associated with staff changeovers will impact neighbours. • Edgemoor Drive should be adopted as a Residential Parking Permit Holders Only.”

“Local Highway Authority (Knowsley Council) – No objection. In accordance with the Council’s parking standards, residential care homes require 1 parking space per 5 bedrooms. The proposed use will result in 4-bedroom property, and there is 1 off-street parking space within the site boundary at the rear of the property…”

“Social Care (Knowsley Council) – Our current residential care demand is for Ofsted registered, small homes, 1-2 bed, who can cater for the more complex needs of children and young people. The updated plan in relation to 2 children and office and bedroom /bathroom space would be suitable. The staffing structure is considered to be appropriate.”

“The Committee considered report of the Executive Director (Regeneration and Economic Development) on the above application for planning permission.”

“RESOLVED – That delegated authority be given to the Head of Planning and Building Control to grant planning permission subject to the conditions set out in the schedule.”