A bid to open an Isle of Wight care home for children deemed to be in crisis could be given the go-ahead tomorrow (Tuesday) – after dozens of objections.
County Hall planners are recommending Mr and Mrs Surman’s application for a change of use of a residential property in East Cowes be granted subject to conditions.
The proposal would increase the standard of living and long-term prospects of children at the property, a council report says ahead of a planning committee vote.
It follows opposition from East Cowes Town Council which raised concerns over a lack of detailed fire safety information, severe impact on the surrounding highway network and there being no evidence of compliance with building regulations.
There have also been 28 critical representations from members of the public, citing issues such as the effect on privacy and overlooking, limited sound insulation between properties and extra noise and disturbance from a 24-hour staffed operation.
Planners said:
“The proposals would deliver a small unit of care for children, allowing those occupying the unit to form a family group, and utilise local facilities.
“This would assist in the government and local authority’s aims to move from larger institutional care for children, to smaller, localised and more family-oriented means of care, allowing better outcomes for those most in need.
Article continues below this advertisement “The benefits of such an approach are considered to be substantial, in the context of this planning application.”
Agent SJC Planning previously said Mrs Surman has significant experience and expertise in social care and considers the property would give disadvantaged children the best opportunities in what are otherwise often ‘very upsetting situations’.
The planning committee will meet at County Hall at 16:00 tomorrow.
