Leicestershire children's home approved in spite of objections

A Leicestershire children's home has been unanimously approved at Harborough District Council (HDC) planning committee this week despite many objections. Kibworth Parish Council and many residents raised objections about the plans for the property at Barnards Way in Kibworth Harcourt.

The application, put forward by Ayaz Tejani of Forever Footsteps, looked to change the house into a children's home occupied by up to three children between the ages of eight to 17. A minimum of two carers on duty at any time were also proposed for the home which would provide "long term accommodation for children with learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder and emotional/behavioural difficulties".

The site was described as a detached five bedroomed house spread over three floors in a residential area of Kibworth Harcourt, with a detached double garage and driveway. An electric vehicle charging point was also proposed.

Documents state no external changes to the building would take place. Internally, two of the bedrooms would provide sleeping accommodation and office space for two carers. On the ground floor the kitchen/diner, dining room, lounge and study will remain as is.

Plans said the carers would work 48-hour shifts in a two day on, three day off work pattern. A manager would also be present at the property from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday. Visits from social workers, yearly Ofsted inspections and clinical professional appointments are anticipated to take place, they add.

However, a number of concerns were raised about the scheme. Kibworth Parish Council claimed the children's home would impact on the quality of life for nearby residents and feared a potential increase in anti-social behaviour in the area.

Multiple objections were also raised by 19 addresses in the area - some having more than one objection per address. These opponents cited "noise and disturbance" from the "comings and goings" at the children's home as well as fears about "increased crime, increased traffic and insufficient parking". Some even believed the proposal was "out of character with the area".

In his application, Mr Tejani said an average of one or two clinical/therapy sessions would take place at the home per month. They added that family visits may take place, although these would often be off site. Documents note the children would attend mainstream or special schools. If the children are unable to attend full time mainstream education, a structured alternative would be arranged, they add.

The controversial nature of the plan saw the proposal "called in" by HDC's Kibworths Ward Councillor Phil King. A "call in" usually happens when the application is deemed too complex or controversial.

Council officers recommended HDC's planning committee approved the application, which they did unanimously, subject to four conditions. These include the development starting within four years of approval and that the children's home is restricted to three children, while parking is retained and available at all times.

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