DESPITE the objections of many neighbours, Thurrock Council planning officers have granted permission for a semi-detached dwelling in a residential area of Grays to be converted into a children's home.

The application for change of use of a residential building at 13 Gunning Road was submitted by Aqua Children Home who wish it to accommodate a maximum of two children aged between eight and 18 years old (who will be looked after by up to two carers and a manager

The property has three bedrooms at upper floor level, with a main door access and hallway leading to the upstairs and also the downstairs lounge, that in turn leads to the dining room and kitchen. It has its own private garden to the rear.

A range of objections were raised by the property's immediate neighbours. They can be read via this link.

Planning officers delivered their verdict after being told the new home would be subject to an Ofsted annual visit and there will be visits from local social services approximately every four to six weeks, as well as one Regulation 44 visit each month.

In addition, each child's social worker will visit them individually; however, if the children are from the same local authority area, one social worker may visit both children.

Therefore, officers reason such visits would not be frequent.

Making their decision officers say residents would share facilities such a bathroom, kitchen, living area and garden and as such would live in a similar manner to tenants within a residential property.

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The location of the property.

In addition, they add the planning statement notes that there may be visits from family members and friends, although these are carefully managed in advance, subject to the individual arrangements. These visits will not be more frequent than those typically made by friends or relatives to a family.

In summary the officers say the level of activity at the site in association with proposed use is considered to not be materially different to the existing use of this site and will not exceed six people.

The full report on the application can be read here. 

There have been differing decisions on a number of similar applications recently, including approval for two other similar projects in Grays.

Two applications in Aveley met with differing fates. One was rejected, while another was approved.