Decision delayed on planned Awsworth children's home
A decision on plans to convert a house into a children’s home in Awsworth has been delayed.
Young Hearts Children’s Services Ltd had been looking to change a residential property in Barlow Drive North into a home for looked-after children.
The applicant says the property would ‘provide a safe and nurturing home for up to four children, aged five to 12 years, supported by qualified carers operating on a 24-hour shift pattern’.
Coun Don Pringle (Con), who represents Awsworth, Cossall and Trowell, had referred the plans to Broxtowe Council’s planning committee on February 11 for consideration.
While there had been some objections, including over potential parking problems, a number of residents in a community Facebook page for the village spoke out in support of the plans.
The proposals had been recommended for approval by council officers, but they were deferred due to outstanding queries and the late submission of documents.
Coun Peter Bales (Lab), a member of the planning committee, said there were concerns from Nottinghamshire Council over the fact the provider was ‘newly established’.
Companies House shows Young Hearts Children’s Services Ltd was incorporated in May last year.
The authority also had concerns that the age range limitation of five to 12 ‘may create continuity of care challenges’.
In relation to the parking concerns, the council added: “The applicant has verbally outlined measures intended to mitigate parking or transport impacts.
“However Nottinghamshire Council’s children and families team are unable to reply on verbal assurances only.”
The representation from the council was received late, and councillors said more time was needed to consider the application before a decision was made.
The plans will return to the committee at a later date.