Plans for two new children's homes approved
Getty ImagesPlans for two new children's homes in Derbyshire have been approved.
South Derbyshire District Council granted permission for the homes - which will be temporary for two years - in Linton and Boulton Moor at a meeting on Tuesday.
Two private companies, which will run the homes in co-operation with Derby City Council and Derbyshire County Council, said they would help fill a shortage in spaces for children in the district.
Both properties will house three children each over the next two years, the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) said.
Roots Care Group sought permission to turn a four-bedroom detached house in Coton Park, Linton, into a home for three children, aged eight to 17 and two members of staff.
Objections were submitted by six residents and Linton Parish Council which voiced concerns over the lack of local facilities and public transport, noise and lack of parking, the LDRS said.
'Profoundly effective'
Alistair Tilley, chairman of Linton Parish Council, said the location was thought to be “unsuitable” and could lead to “anti-social behaviour on and off the premises”.
A representative for Roots Care Group said their placements had been “profoundly effective” in helping “children to thrive”, saying the trust placed in the company by children and families is “sacred”.
AA&J Supporting Services applied to turn a four-bed detached house in Kimbolton Way, Boulton Moor, into a home for three children up to the age of 18.
A representative for the company said: “Our role is to look after children and support families.
"We don’t want our children to be placed out of county when we have local providers able to support their needs.”
Council officers, recommending approval of both homes, referenced a government ministerial statement issued in May last year, which said the planning system should "not be a barrier to providing homes for the most vulnerable children in society".
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