New children's home approved in County Durham amid community concerns and MP objections
by Bill Edgar · ChronicleLiveDespite significant opposition, a new children's home is set to open in a County Durham village. The proposal by Willow Bloom for Front Street North in Trimdon Village faced hundreds of objections.
The facility will house two young people aged between 6-17 years old with emotional and behavioural difficulties, with two staff members on duty at all times. Durham County Council's planning committee gave the green light to the application on Thursday.
The building, previously a pub before being converted into housing, will be used as part of the children's home, along with an outbuilding. However, 220 letters of objection were submitted to the council, including from Alan Strickland, MP for Newton Aycliffe and Spennymoor.
Residents expressed concerns about the potential impact on their close-knit community. Jill Dent, speaking on behalf of the objectors, said: "There may be a need for another children’s care home in the Trimdon area but if so, it must fit harmoniously within it. A residential institution in a village location carries a stigma and a perception of attracting persons of poor character and criminal background could disturb community cohesion. These concerns matter because of the ongoing implications they would have on our daily lives."
Trimdon and Thornley ward members Lucy Hovvels and Chris Varty supported these concerns. Helen Broadhead, representing the applicant Willow Group, stated that this will be the organisation's first children's home.
The proprietor expressed commitment to the facility's ownership but emphasized that her team is well-equipped to run the establishment. She stated: "We want to have as much of a positive impact as we can on as many children and young people from our community that we will be lucky enough to support in the future. We believe we will create an outstanding residential service."
Mrs Broadhead reassured the meeting attendees about prioritising community ties and collaboration with locals and authorities for assured safety. "Every step of the way we will follow the correct procedure. Every child deserves a safe, caring and nurturing environment to develop, learn and grow."
However, Cllr Shirley Quinn admitted she was conflicted over the matter. "I know this building, it’s right on a main road," she voiced her concern. "With it being so prominent in the village it will be known as a children’s home and it’s right in your face."
Nonetheless, the councillors considered the facility's necessity more significant than the issues raised and believed the application would succeed on appeal if denied. .
Cllr Anita Savory argued in favour of their responsibility to the youth. "We have a duty of care to these young people, to give them opportunities in life. I can’t see a valid reason why we can refuse this."
In sanctioning the plan, the planning committee assured residents raising concerns that the establishment would be under the regulatory watch of OFSTED and Durham County Council.
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