Wrenthorpe care home approved despite objections

Wakefield Council has given the go-ahead for the facility to be built on vacant land in Ruskin Avenue, Wrenthorpe.

The local authority received 37 objections to the scheme after it was lodged by Kinwood Group in December last year.

Those opposed to the facility raised concerns over a possible increase in traffic in the cul-de-sac, saying it was “bound to adversely impact the amenity of the residents.”

A planning statement submitted by the applicant said the two-storey building would provide supported accommodation for five adults with autism and complex needs.

The company said residents would be supported by two to three members of staff during daytimes and evenings.

Four parking spaces are also planned to serve the facility.

The document said: “The proposal seeks to deliver a high-quality, purpose-built residential environment that operates as a single household, offering long-term accommodation with appropriate care and support, while maintaining a domestic scale and character consistent with surrounding residential development.

“Daily movements will be comparable to a typical large family dwelling.

“Additional visitors may include health professionals or social workers on an occasional, scheduled basis. There will be no regular visiting by the general public.”

One opponent of the plan commented on the council’s planning portal: “Ruskin Avenue is already an extremely busy road with cars already exceeding the speed limit.

“There are lots of families who live here and lots of children who walk both too and from school.

“The increase in traffic will only increase the risk of an accident and again the safety of the children.”

Another objector said: “While I recognise the broader societal need for supported living, this specific proposal represents an over-intensification of the site and introduces an inappropriate institutional use into a quiet, family-focused residential estate.”

Two people wrote letters support the development.

One said: “I think this is a good place for a home to support local people with additional needs instead of housing them out of area far away from their families and friends.

“Wrenthorpe has always been a warm and welcoming place for everybody.

“There are a lot of amenities for different people.”

A planning officer said the scheme was acceptable, subject to conditions being imposed.

A report said: “The proposal would not lead to a detrimental impact to highway safety and have an acceptable impact in terms of amenity.

“All other material planning considerations have been assessed in the application and the proposal is considered to meet the necessary requirements.”