Council approves Gateshead children’s home in Eighton Banks, despite 45 local objections over parking and traffic concerns.
The plan changes a house on Rockcliffe Way to house children in the council’s care. The house cost the council about £500,000, and neighbors expressed forty-five objections. People feared more parking problems. The council got a lawyer’s letter and a transport report that critiqued the plan, wanting the council to refuse it; however, council documents did not change their minds.
Officers still wanted to approve the plans. Lawyers briefly stopped the meeting and questioned the council’s process by sending another communication. The council’s lawyer said the meeting could continue and reach a decision.
A resident, Philip Farely, opposed the plan, saying traffic and parking would increase on Rockcliffe Way. The home will house three kids at a time. Officials said street parking would be needed, but they expect only one or two extra cars daily, while the house already has space for two cars.
Staff will change shifts mid-morning to avoid busy traffic, and change overs will take about ten minutes. Staggering arrivals will limit traffic. Most councillors approved it, with two voting against it and one person abstaining.