Ipswich plans to convert 5 Coniston Square East into children’s home refused
Plans to turn an Ipswich house into a children's home have been refused – despite being recommended for approval.
Today, Ipswich Borough Council’s planning committee met to discuss Chima Philips’ plans to use 5 Coniston Square East to house 11 to 17 year olds who have experienced behavioural, emotional and social difficulties or a breakdown in family life.
Giving his representations, Mr Philip said people should ‘enjoy children’s homes’.
He felt the home would be in a prime location, near local services – and that Suffolk County Council would like to house children.
Suffolk County Council’s Children and Young People's (CYP) raised concerns over the applicant’s lack of experience with children’s service provision, while Suffolk Police said the location for the homes was not appropriate.
In addition, several councillors expressed their opposition to the plans.
Cllr Sam Murray said she was very concerned with the plans.
She said: “I understand the area has a low-to-medium risk for negative influences.
“It would be a recipe for disaster if not managed well so I will not be voting in favour.”
Cllr Oliver Holmes said: “We have to follow local plans. Suffolk’s Young People Services have backed this up. This is not a location where they want to see a children's home.
“This will not be for local children, this will be for children outside the area.”
Cllr Carole Jones said: “It seems to me from comments by the applicant, even though he said he's experienced in this area, that he’s gone about the process of making this application in a completely roundabout way.
“Police objected, saying it was an inappropriate place to put vulnerable children.”
She also raised concerns that Mr Philip did not run an Ofsted-registered children’s home.
Cllr Jones said: “Children's homes don't have to be lavish but they do have to be well managed.”
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