Halstead: Plans to turn office space into children's home

The proposals submitted to Braintree Council outline the change of use of the office space which has "recently become vacant".

The detached building is located to the rear of 17-23 Head Street.

Plans outline the intention to convert the use of the building to provide a home for children with emotional behavioural difficulties or learning disabilities.

A statement says the home would enable them to "lead as normal lives as possible while staying connected with the community".

It continues: "The intended use would primarily be for residential purposes, with potential support from staff and caregivers.

"The proposed children’s home seeks to replicate as closely as possible a regular family environment.

"This type of provision, which government policy is promoting, is to help children who often, through no fault of their own, have not had nurturing parenting in their early years."

The new home would promote independence, build resilience and encourage social inclusion.

Carers will provide food, shelter and a "safe place" for children to grow, with children encouraged to "develop their interests and hobbies".

The home will provide "structure and stability" and carers will encourage the use of "set routines and help to establish boundaries for children within the home".

The proposal is to register the property as a home for a maximum of three children aged between eight and 17 years old.

Plans also confirm that as per Ofsted requirements, staff would be employed on a rota basis to provide parental support to children, and the home would feature security cameras, emergency lighting and locks on bedrooms doors for the privacy of each child.

One objector on the planning website raised concerns including a lack of outdoor space, the proximity to a busy road and the area having "poor public transport links".

Halstead Town Council proposed no objections to the plans, which will be decided on by Braintree Council.