Plans to change a house in Westbury into a residential children’s home have been withdrawn by the applicant.
The proposal to convert a property in Hawkeridge Park into a children’s home to accommodate four children, either male or female, aged between eight and 17, faced opposition from local residents.
Hawkeridge Park residents have welcomed the decision to withdraw the proposal.
Resident Claire Aston said, “In our view, the location is unsuitable due to significant safety concerns. The proximity of the property to the railway station presents a particular risk. While the house is detached, it remains overlooked by neighbouring properties, which may compromise the privacy and safeguarding considerations essential for vulnerable children. A children’s home of this nature is generally more appropriately located in a quieter, more rural setting where risks can be better managed.
“Although there is an acknowledged need for children’s homes, it is essential that providers operating in this sector are subject to rigorous vetting and oversight before being permitted to operate. Given the commercial nature of this field, robust scrutiny is necessary to ensure the highest standards of care and safeguarding are upheld.”
Previously, residents raised concerns about limited public consultation and communication of the plans and the impact on the surrounding area.
Concerns were also raised by local MP Andrew Murrison, who criticised what he described as limited consultation with residents.
Wiltshire Council’s Families and Children’s Commissioning Team also questioned the suitability of the site, citing the number of existing children’s homes in Wiltshire. “These homes are most appropriately located in more rural settings, where the environment is better suited to meeting and managing their specific needs,” the team said.
Pictured: The proposed site (Google Maps)
