PLANS to build a children's home in a "quiet residential area" have been approved despite objections from the town council and neighbours.

Amegreen Children's Services wanted to change the use of a property in Broad Halfpenny Lane, Tadley to become a children's home.

The application was met with objections from not only neighbours but Tadley Town Council itself, who said the change would "fundamentally alter the residential character of the neighbourhood."

However, the application was approved, after council officers deemed it would not make more noise than other children in a typical family dwelling.

It said that the overall number of children is small therefore not considered to materially change the use. 

The application sought to change the use of an existing four-bedroom house to a children's home, housing children under the care of the local authority.

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It is anticipated it would be the long-term home for the children for at least a year, with no more than two members of staff at the property at one time.

In a statement published on August 9, 2024, Nicki Barry, Tadley Town Council Clerk, said: "The proposed children's home would fundamentally alter the residential character of the neighbourhood.

"It would be totally out of keeping with the existing properties and would introduce a commercial enterprise to a residential area." 

She added: "We understand the importance of providing appropriate care facilities for children, but it is equally important to balance these needs with the rights and well-being of existing residents. This location is not suitable for such a development."

Five neighbours voiced their concerns in public comments on the application.

One of which was Graham Pretty, who lives in Broad Halfpenny Lane.

He said: "I am quite shocked that there has been no formal consultation of this proposed change of use."

Other neighbours said the road was predominantly occupied by older residents who would expect it to stay quiet, another raised concerns over increased noise and another feared for the children's safety due to lack of street lighting. 

In a report, planning officer Ruth Triebsh determined that the application did not require neighbour consultation.

The report added: "The scheme displayed many features associated with a family dwelling and while some of the children may make more noise than children in a typical family dwelling, the overall number of children was small.

"The property was large, sitting in a rural location and the coming and going of staff and family would not materially impact on the surrounding area."

Despite the objections, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council approved the application on Wednesday, September 18, subject to conditions.

Director of Amegreen Children’s Services Rachel Redgwell said: “Hampshire desperately needs more homes like ours to help vulnerable children and particularly allowing them to stay as close to home as possible.

“We have made a commitment to supporting local children and their families in enabling children to remain in their local communities and attend local schools where at all possible. 

“This new home is for four children with learning disabilities and using wheelchairs. We pride ourselves on creatively developing each of our homes to the needs of the children, whether they have learning disabilities, mental health concerns, or have experienced significant loss and trauma. 

“We are exceptionally proud of our teams, who work consistently to ensure our children feel part of a community and never face discrimination or barriers due to their disabilities.”