PLANS to turn a building into a children’s care home near Churchstoke have been approved by councillors, despite opposition from residents

On Thursday, August 1, Powys County Council’s (PCC) planning committee discussed the application by Stockport-based Care4Children.

They wanted to turn Corndon Manor at White Grit, near Churchstoke, into a care home where two carers would look after four children.

Residents living in the quiet rural area have been opposed to the scheme and held a public meeting in May to discuss it.

Churchstoke Community Council also opposed the application and one of its members, Cllr Gary Cross spoke at the meeting.

He explained there were three issues:

  • It would put more strain on sewerage infrastructure
  • An increase of traffic on narrow single-track lanes
  • It would take a long time from emergency services to respond to incidents in an isolated rural spot

Sarah Brown, representing the residents of White Grit added that 31 letter of objection had been sent to PCC from the 28 homes nearby.

Ms Brown added: “The social needs of our small hamlet have not been considered at all in this application.”

Agent for Care4Children, Adrian Rose, said: “The company I represent deal with children and young people who through no fault of their own have had a very poor upbringing and deserve a chance in life.

“I understand the concerns of residents, they are not delinquents.”

“There is no difference in how this house would operate from how it would if a large family were living there.”

Mr Rose added the it was hoped the children would integrate into the society there, such as playing for the local cricket club and be known and respected in the area.

Cllr Jonathon Wilkinson (Conservative, Meifod) revealed he had spent time in care while growing up and sympathised with their plight.

But a similar home in his ward had caused anti-social behaviour.

“It’s similar to this and had a very negative impact on the community, I would hate to see the same thing happening to this community,” said Cllr Wilkinson.

Cllr Francesca Jump (Liberal Democrat – Welshpool Gungrog), said: “We’re talking about four or five children with complex problems that they will bring to a completely new situation.

“There’s going to be problems.”

Committee solicitor, Colin Edwards, reminded the committee members that they were there to look at the planning application and should not “speculate” on the quality of management or the problems the children may have.

Cllr Phil Pritchard (Welshpool – Castle) said that he knew the area well and pointed out the main road (A488) between Bishops Castle and Shrewsbury is only 500 yards from Corndon Manor.

Cllr Pritchard said: “I think this building absolutely lends itself to what is required.

“These children do need a chance in life, it really is that simple.”

Cllr Pritchard proposed approving the application and was seconded by Cllr Roger Williams (Liberal Democrat – Felinfach).

The application was passed by 11 votes to four.