Controversial plans for a family assessment unit in an end-terrace house that divided residents have been given the green light by councillors.
A proposal to change the use of a six-bedroom house on the corner of Queen Street in Royton had prompted conflicting responses, with 43 letters of objection and 49 supporting comments.
Neighbouring residents had argued the plan would exacerbate parking problems, could cause anti-social behaviour issues and would lead to a drop in house prices.
However supporters said the unit, which would cater for parents and children up to five years old, would allow families to stay together and avoid youngsters having to be placed into care.
At a meeting of Oldham’s planning committee, objector Dean Burgess told councillors that residents were ‘angry about how this matter has been dealt with’, adding that only ‘one resident’ was ‘personally informed’ about the proposal.
“It’s clear by reading the 42 public comments that oppose the application that there is a strong feeling about this,” he added.
“Many of the comments have been submitted by people that live on Queen Street which is a quiet residential street.”
However case officer Emma Breheny said that seven neighbouring properties had been written to about the proposal, and a site notice was posted outside the house.
While he acknowledged there were 49 statements in favour, Mr Burgess said the comments of support didn’t appear to give a ‘flavour’ of people who live in the area.
“Perhaps the voice that should be heard the most is the widowed lady that lives directly next door to this property. She strongly opposes the proposition and the very real impact she feels it will have on her daily living and her mental health,” he added.
“This opposition is not to do with the facilities themselves but more the location of the proposed site. You only have to visit the street and property itself to see it really isn’t in keeping with the general area.
“There will undoubtedly be an impact on the house next door, how could there not be when up to 12 people could be in the premises at any one time plus the possibility of visitors.”
He said the objections had a running theme of ‘anti-social behaviour, future house values’ and the suitability of the building itself and parking issues.
Councillor Clint Phythian who represents Royton North ward said there was ‘concern’ among residents that the change of use would generate additional traffic and on-street parking that could impact highway safety. He urged that the application be refused.
“I feel the change of use would not fit in with the aesthetics of this tight-knit community,” he added.
Ms Breheny said that the site would retain its ‘residential appearance’ and the unit would be staffed full time.
“The proposal would involve families living in the premises for up to 12 weeks to have their parenting skills assessed and developed with the support and guidance offered through a registered social worker,” she told the meeting.
While there was no parking proposed with the application, there was already on-street parking with no parking restrictions on surrounding roads, she added.
Speaking on behalf of the applicant, agent Ann Dixon from Pegasus Group said: “Assessments will focus on parenting skills, the emotional and physical development of the children, promotion of parents’ self esteem and confidence, psychological assessments and the child’s developmental and care needs.
“There will be a maximum of three families residing in the building at any time and the unit will be permanently staffed.
“Visits would be restricted to one social worker or health visitor for a meeting and visits from family members and the general public will be prohibited.
“Whilst at the property, parents and children will only leave the premises if accompanied by a staff member.
“The application creates a healthy, inclusive and safe place to live by providing temporary housing for parents and their children whilst they are being assessed by trained professionals.”
She added: “A level of noise and activity which may result is not considered to have an impact of concern.
“The other consideration is anti-social behaviour. It should be noted that the occupants will be on assessment while at this site so there will be a strong incentive for them to behave appropriately.
“Alcohol and non-prescription drugs will not be allowed on the premises. There is existing CCTV to the exterior that will remain and internal CCTV will be installed thus problems seem highly unlikely.”
She said there would be a maximum of four cars for staff members, and cycle storage would be provided on site.
The prospective manager of the home also addressed the meeting, telling councillors she had been a social worker for 14 years.
“There is a need for such a facility,” she added. “It would be utilised by a lot of the Greater Manchester councils.”
Committee chair Coun Peter Dean said it was a ‘better offer than some that could be put in place’ at the property, and moved that the application be approved. It was voted through by councillors.
Read more of today's top stories here
READ NEXT:
Callous dad-of-six pounced as helpless woman took her shopping in from the car
- 'Horrendous' scenes as man 'knocked unconscious with single punch' outside pub
- Huge police cordon in place on road with forensics on scene
- Terrified TUI passengers in 'floods of tears' after pilot aborts Manchester Airport landing during blizzard
- Illegal shisha bar which 'flouted the law for years' shut down as owner slapped with huge fine
