By Rufus Pickles - Local Democracy Reporter
County Hall has approved Next Wave Care Group’s (NWCG) proposal to convert a three-bedroom house, in School Lane, Newport, into a children’s home.
A supporting email from Isle of Wight Council officer, Simon Dennis, said the Island “faces a significant shortage of children’s homes, resulting in many children being placed in care facilities on the mainland.”
The decision follows the granting of consent for another NWCG care home in Sandown.
A planning statement from NWCG’s agent says: “The proposed accommodation would comprise three bedrooms (accommodating a total of three children), one of which would be en-suite.
“There would be a main bathroom, staff room, second lounge/sensory room, kitchen/diner and a lounge. The important point to note is that the exterior and interior of the property will not change as it is important to maintain the characteristics of being a single-family home and not to feel institutionalised.”
One resident said the proposal “sounds like a lovely idea” but expressed concern over a nearby homeless shelter. He said: “Nothing but anti-social behaviour from them, and wouldn’t want any of them to upset the children or cause distress.”
Isle of Wight Observer