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09
May 2024
Proposed Harrogate children’s home faces public backlash
Plans to convert a Harrogate house into a children’s home have faced backlash from the public.
The application, which was tabled to North Yorkshire Council in March, outlines plans to turn Oak Back on Ashgarth Court – near Ashville College – into C2 classified housing, which refers to residential accommodation for people in need of care.
The Stray Ferret reported on the plans at the time of submission, which generated concern among social media followers.
Now nearly two months later, all 27 public comments made on the planning portal are objections.
Eddie Dale, who has submitted an objection comment to the council, said the house would be a “thoughtless site for a children’s residential home”.
He adds:
Mr Dale said he regarded Ashgarth Court as a “friendly, cohesive and safe environment”, but added the possibility of losing this made him “very uncomfortable and worried”.
Another objector, Richard Dennis, felt the application would be “detrimental” not only to the local community, but also for “any persons placed in care at the property” if approved.
He echoed concerns about a lack of facilities for young people in the area, adding it was “totally unsuitable” for potential residents:
Louise Dennis was one of many to highlight parking issues.
The application claims the house has a “large off-street driveway” meaning “no cars will take up additional road space”. However, Ms Dennis “strongly disputes” this.
She said:
Ms Dennis also expressed concern about the increase in traffic and congestion that could arise should the plans be approved.
Ms Dennis also suggested the local community would “undoubtedly be impacted” if the plans went ahead, adding more cars in the area would release more emissions and the potential risks of noise and anti-social behaviour would increase.
‘Widespread misconception of care homes’
In an email uploaded to the planning portal, applicant Jolyon McKay addressed some of the objections made.
He said it was “understandable” that some people “harbour reservations about residential placement homes”. He added, however, “sensationalised portrayals” had led to a “widespread misconception of care homes”.
He said:
He added “thorough assessments” had been undertaken to “ensure the site will not adversely affect local amenities or community cohesion”, and said his team "remain dedicated to fostering a positive relationship with the local community and addressing any concerns in a proactive and transparent manner".
The application states several healthcare workers would be hired at the children’s home and would be an Ofsted registered site.
It also said the home would have four bedrooms, with “never more than a maximum of three children living at the home”.
North Yorkshire Council will adjudicate on the application at a later date.
Read more:
- Harrogate Station Gateway: consultants' fees rise to £2.1 million
- Details of proposed Harrogate children's home revealed
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