PLANS to turn a five-bedroom Royston property into a children’s home have been rejected by the council again - after every neighbouring property objected to work taking place.
It was the second bid to convert the property after planning board members opted to refuse initial proposals two years ago, when just 14 objections were raised by residents.
Councillors said the scheme would be ‘detrimental’ to neighbours due to noise and disturbance and subsequently refused the bid.
Applicant Dr Amjid Usman wants to turn the property into a home for three youngsters and says the use will be ‘no different to that of a family home’.
Staff changeovers, documents say, would occur in the morning to avoid adding to traffic concerns.
But last week the plans were turned down by the council’s planning board once again.
An online petition, which garnered dozens of signatures, was created - and a total of 11 formal objections from nearby residents was also submitted.
Their concerns ranged from a detrimental effect on the community, noise issues, increased traffic and the potential impact on the safety and wellbeing of residents.
Hayley Hemmings, who created the petition, said: “The proposed children’s home is set to be located in an area known for its tranquility and close-knit community.
“We are concerned about the potential increase in traffic, noise and overall disruption that such a facility might bring.
“While we understand the need for children’s homes, placing one in our quiet, residential area is not appropriate and could negatively impact the quality of life for current residents.”
Each and every address contacted by the applicant in regards to proposed change of use rejected to the plans.
A report states: “Eleven neighbours were consulted regarding the application and a site notice was also erected in the local area.
“Objections have been received from 11 addresses.
“It is noted that the property is located within a predominantly residential area within a modern estate of similar properties.
“Up to three children aged between six and 18 would reside within the property on a medium to long term basis and would integrate in the community by attending local schools, clubs.
“This would mirror the use of the neighbouring properties by families, however, where this use would differ is the on-site staff.
“The proposal would result in the loss of a 5-bedroom family home from the housing stock.
“Although the number of children proposed has reduced from the previously refused application from four to three, however, staffing levels would still be similar, as such, the previous reasons for refusal have not been addressed. “
“As such, the scheme would reduce residential amenity for existing residents through additional activity associated with the proposed use which would be over and above what would reasonably be expected within an established residential area.
“There is still also a lack of justification for the need of the change of use which is likely to place additional strain on local services.”
The plans were rejected by the council’s planning board once more last week.
