Green light for new children’s home at property in Odd Down

Bath & North East Somerset Council has granted approval for a property in Odd Down to become a children’s home.

Mainstay Housing and Support Ltd submitted the application for a house at Old Fosse Road last month, saying: “Our mission is to support Bath and North East Somerset Council in meeting the growing demand for suitable housing for looked-after children.

“The Bath and North East Somerset area faces a significant shortfall in family-style accommodation for children in care.”

The application sought permission to change the house to a children’s home, which will be Ofsted-regulated and accommodate up to three looked-after children aged seven to 17.

The home will offer short and medium-term placements, providing 24-hour care in a “nurturing, family-style environment”.

The applicant said up to two vehicles will be used for school runs, appointments, and community activities and will be parked on site.

The level of vehicle use will be “consistent with a typical residential household and not impact local traffic or parking availability”.

Council planners said that the house being occupied by three children with two carers is a “compatible use” with the surrounding residential area and there were no concerns from the highways team.

The report said: “The children would be integrated into the community, attending schools and using services. There is no evidence to demonstrate that the children will be anti-social, cause intimidation or result in an increase in crime.

“It should also be noted that this property could be occupied by any ‘unknown’ family and/or people at any time without needing planning permission.”