A bid to create three children’s homes in the County Durham countryside has been opposed by the council despite local support, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
The proposals by Grace Jardine would see three properties at Hole House Farm, near Lanchester, each accommodating up to two children aged between seven and 17.
In a planning statement, the applicant said the vision was to create welcoming, family-style homes rather than institutional care settings.
The development would also help meet the shortage of children’s residential placements across County Durham, they added.
Although the council agreed with the need for more children’s homes across the region, planning officers said the proposed scheme “would not result in a safe environment” and would provide insufficient garden space for the proposed use.
The authority also said another children’s home in the area would have a “detrimental impact on community cohesion” because of the existing number of similar properties nearby.
The site’s countryside location meant it was not close to essential services or public transport, leaving residents and staff heavily reliant on private cars, the report added.
Officers said the number of journeys associated with caring for the children, combined with those generated by a neighbouring children’s home, would result in a “sizeable amount of journeys by unsustainable modes of transport”.
No objections against the application have been received.
Alison Gray, county councillor for Lanchester ward, supports the scheme.
She said the development would help address a shortage of children’s residential placements through an approved provider and believed the rural setting would provide a safe and peaceful environment for vulnerable young people.
“The location is perfect,” she added.
“The tranquil rural surroundings will be ideal for children who have had difficult experiences. Being in the country will be good for their well-being. It also means they are isolated from more negative influences in local towns.
“There is plenty of space for walks and playing. The location and plenty of space mean that vehicles coming and going to provide support will not annoy residents.”
Three separate applications for the plans will be considered by Durham County Council’s planning committee.
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
