Despite neighbor and council objections, the Vale planning committee approved a children’s home in Botley, citing a need for the facility.
Despite neighbor and council objections, the Vale planning committee approved a children’s home in Botley, citing a need for the facility.
Oxford Childrens Home Plan Approved Despite Local Objections
Despite the opposition, the Vale planning committee approved the plan on Wednesday, February 26. The main concerns raised were parking and the location of the proposed home. The home would house up to four children between the ages of eight and seventeen, all of whom would have a learning disability.
Three staff members will manage the home, working in twelve-hour shifts. Judy Roberts spoke for the parish council, mentioning another nearby home with seven bedrooms. She stated that the other homes often has ten cars parked outside. Visitors, family, and staff contributing to the parking issues lead people fear the street will become a car park.
James Major argued that the home is out of place because the area is quiet and residential and lacks suitable facilities. Isabel James also objected, believing it will increase noise and traffic. Jesse Harmon, however, supported the children’s home, noting that most residents have communication difficulties and will keep attending their current schools.
Harmon does not anticipate a significant increase in traffic, as visits will be planned ahead. The home will provide a quiet place, helping kids with complex needs. Ron Batstone thinks integrating children with problems can be positive, making it a wise decision.
Mike Pighills expressed concerns stemming from the large petition from neighbors and thinks the home might negatively affect the area. He suggested that there could be better locations, but, ultimately, the plan passed with two votes against it and one abstention.
Despite the opposition, the Vale planning committee approved the plan on Wednesday, February 26. The main concerns raised were parking and the location of the proposed home. The home would house up to four children between the ages of eight and seventeen, all of whom would have a learning disability.
Three staff members will manage the home, working in twelve-hour shifts. Judy Roberts spoke for the parish council, mentioning another nearby home with seven bedrooms. She stated that the other homes often has ten cars parked outside. Visitors, family, and staff contributing to the parking issues lead people fear the street will become a car park.
James Major argued that the home is out of place because the area is quiet and residential and lacks suitable facilities. Isabel James also objected, believing it will increase noise and traffic. Jesse Harmon, however, supported the children’s home, noting that most residents have communication difficulties and will keep attending their current schools.
Harmon does not anticipate a significant increase in traffic, as visits will be planned ahead. The home will provide a quiet place, helping kids with complex needs. Ron Batstone thinks integrating children with problems can be positive, making it a wise decision.
Mike Pighills expressed concerns stemming from the large petition from neighbors and thinks the home might negatively affect the area. He suggested that there could be better locations, but, ultimately, the plan passed with two votes against it and one abstention.