Council OKs care home for youth on Stanmore Road despite objections on traffic, parking, noise around the stadium.
The council approved this change despite some worries about traffic and parking. Mr. S Sheikh proposed the plan to use a house on Stanmore Road.
Locals sent ten letters objecting to the plan. Councilor Fiona Venner also spoke out, noting her past work with kids and families led her to believe the area was not suitable for its intended use.
Venner cited the area’s noise and student housing nearby. She further mentioned the challenges posed by stadium events and the rugby traffic impacting accessibility.
Councilor Barry Anderson acknowledged Venner’s concerns. However, he noted that current regulations didn’t allow them to block the project, emphasizing the need for updated rules for these situations.
Councilor Paul Wray concurred on the need for comprehensive rules. Andy Rontree abstained from voting on the plan.
Planning officers clarified that only one parking spot was required. They cautioned that rejecting the plan could have negative consequences. Ultimately, a majority vote approved the house conversion.