Planning permission has been approved for the change of use of a residential property into a children’s home in Morton, Gainsborough.
The proposal involves converting an existing dwelling into a small residential care home providing accommodation for up to three children, alongside modest extensions and alterations to the property.
Despite local objections, including from the Parish Council, the Local Planning Authority concluded that the development complies with planning policy and was acceptable. The application was submitted to West Lyndsey District Council on behalf of Illuminate Care Group, who are committed to providing high-quality, community-based care settings for children and young people.
The Proposal
The development sought permission for:
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Change of use from a dwelling (Use Class C3) to a children’s home (Use Class C2)
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Construction of a single-storey rear extension
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Internal alterations to accommodate the care use
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Conversion of the existing detached garage into an office
The children’s home will provide a family-style environment for up to three young people, supported by staff working on a rotating 24-hour shift pattern.
Morton is identified as a Tier 5 “Medium Village” within the Central Lincolnshire settlement hierarchy. Planning policy generally directs residential care accommodation to larger settlements. However, proposals in smaller settlements may still be acceptable where suitable access to services and facilities can be demonstrated. The Local Planning Authority concluded that the proposal provides reasonable access to services and facilities, satisfying the relevant policy requirements.
Residential Amenity
Some neighbouring residents raised concerns about potential:
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Noise and disturbance;
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Increased traffic; and
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Anti-social behaviour.
However, the planning officer noted that the use remains residential in nature and that the level of activity would likely be similar to that of a family household. With only three children living at the property and two staff members on site, the authority concluded that the proposal would not result in unacceptable impacts on neighbouring amenity.
This successful outcome enables Illuminate Care Group to continue expanding high-quality residential services for children, in a warm homely environment, which inevitably benefits the children in need of care.
Need Help With a Planning Application?
Planning applications involving changes of use to children’s homes or care accommodation can be complex and often attract local interest or objection.
If you are considering a similar proposal and need expert planning advice, our experienced planning consultants can guide you through the process and help maximise the chances of a successful outcome.
Related Content
At Planning House, we’re proud to support the creation of safe, family-style children’s homes that make a real difference to young lives. If you’d like to understand more about how planning can help deliver care-based developments:
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Take a look at our eBook on the Application Process, which explains the planning journey in detail.
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Not sure if you need professional support? Read our blog on When to Hire a Town Planner.
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If you’re considering a care or children’s home project, our Guide on How to Choose a Town Planner can help you find the right expertise.
And of course, if you’d like tailored advice about supporting children’s homes or any other change of use project, don’t hesitate to Contact Us.
