Specialist children's home proposed for town

A children's home providing support to young people who have experienced trauma or mental health challenges has been proposed for a street in Shifnal.

Kinetic Kare Ltd has submitted plans for the scheme to happen in Botfield Road, with a consultation period open until 13 May.

In a planning statement, LMDS Architectural Ltd said the home would have no more than two residents aged between seven and 18, with four members of staff on duty at any one time, depending on the needs of the children.

In total, there will be five members of staff assigned to the home, with two remaining overnight from 22:00-07:30 BST.

Social workers, independent reviewing officers and other external professionals will visit the home around every four to six weeks, in accordance with Ofsted and care planning regulations.

Lyndon Morgans, of LMDS Architectural Ltd, said: "In terms of general movements, the home will operate as a typical household, including transporting children to and from school, attending activities, and supporting health appointments."

The proposal has so far attracted two supporting comments and two objecting.

"Although I am not a resident, I visit Shifnal regularly and am very familiar with the area," said Cameron Wenlock.

"From my perspective, this proposal is a suitable and sensible use of the property that would sit comfortably within the existing residential setting.

"A five-bedroom house accommodating only two children is unlikely to function any differently, in practical terms, from a typical family household. As a result, I do not consider that the proposal would alter the character of the area or give rise to any significant increase in noise, activity, or general disturbance."

However, Molly Hilton said: "The proposed development would result in a material intensification of use on what is a narrow residential road with limited capacity.

"Botfield Road already experiences congestion, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times due to its close proximity to a nearby school.

"The additional vehicle movements associated with staff shift changes, visitors, and service providers would significantly increase traffic levels, leading to heightened highway safety risks for pedestrians, including children and families."

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.