Derbyshire Childrens Homes Approved Despite Real Concerns Voiced

Derbyshire councillors approved some new plans. The plans will turn houses into children’s homes. This happened at an Amber Valley council meeting that took place on February 17.

One plan creates a home for two kids, located in Langley Mill. Two other plans create homes for four kids each. These are in Makeney, near Duffield.

Experts didn’t object to the plans. If they had, the council could lose an appeal. However, locals sent over 40 letters of protest and presented a petition with 97 signatures.

The homes will house eight kids total, aged from 10 to 18. Up to ten staff members can be present at any given time. A resident named Clarke submitted the plans, and Higher Level Children Services will run the homes.

According to one councillor, Gez Kinsella, traffic could worsen during shift changes. He added that there’s also not much public parking space available in the area.

One local called the plan “large scale” and considered it a high-risk commercial venture. Another person said it was wrong. Single-glazed windows can’t block the noise, according to them.

One councillor felt helpless about the decision. The council’s planning manager mentioned highways reasons and did not think there was good reason to reject it.

Another councillor expressed frustration, noting that highways officials approved it. Councillors later approved the plans with a vote of nine yes and two no.

Waseem Chaudry made the Langley Mill plans. He wants to change a house for two kids between 8 and 18 years old. One councillor stated that the location is too near to schools.

Children with autism will live there, with priority given to kids from Amber Valley. Another councillor is worried about the rise in these applications.

The council leader understands traffic worries and suggests the county council needs to act. They unanimously approved this second application.