PLANNING chiefs at Warrington have finally approved a controversial scheme to convert a terraced house into a children’s home – despite opposition from more than 50 nearby residents.
It was the second time the borough council’s development management committee had considered the proposals in Farnworth Road, Penketh – proposals put forward by the council’s own social care department.
The debate lasted nearly an hour, but in the end councillors went along with planning officers who were recommending approval.
On the first occasion the matter was considered the committee had deferred a decision after hearing from neighbours who claimed that when the house had been used as a children’s home previously they had been subjected to years of noise, crime, anti-social behaviour and general disturbance caused by young people living in the house.
Police had also expressed concerns.
.Since the last meeting a further letter of objection had been sent in from more than 50 residents of Walkers Lane and Shaftesbury Avenue, Penketh.
They say they are supporting the Farnworth Road objectors and are also concerned about a similar application in respect of a family property in Walkers Lane.
But a report considered by the committee made it clear police did not oppose the application.
A letter from a local police inspector stated: “I note the previous opposition by police based on some community tension caused by a previous resident, however believe this incident to be in isolation and unlikely to affect a new home.”
The applicants submitted additional information about the training staff at the home would receive. They argued that anti-social behaviour shown by previous occupants should not preclude the new application.
They added: “The basis of concern around anti-social behaviour and fear of anti-social behaviour must be based on the character of the use itself and not solely on the possible behaviour of some its prospective occupants.”
It was also stressed that only a small percentage of children are placed in care because of socially unacceptable behaviour.
