A NEW residential children’s home will go ahead in Christchurch after dozens of residents objected. 

Wild Orchid Therapeutic Services will convert 3 Stroud Gardens into the new children’s home, providing eight rooms and space for four children. 

Twenty-three residents wrote to the council arguing the proposal shouldn’t go ahead, claiming it would result in more noise, traffic and that there “is no need for a children's home in Christchurch”. 

Cllr Marion Le Poidevin, deputy chair of eastern planning committee, said: “It seems excellent that the children will be in a family environment that they might not have otherwise been it.  

“It helps them mix with neighbours... These are ordinary children, they’re not something special except in the sense that they need additional care. 

“I think it’s an excellent use in planning terms, there’s no need for alterations internally or externally.” 

Residents also objected to the conversion of the former residential home, claiming it is “unsuitable for use as a children’s home” due to the small garden. 

Cllr Jo Clements said she was “torn” between rejecting and giving planning consent, adding: “It looks like the property is overdeveloped but that’s done and historical. 

“It certainly stands out much larger than its neighbouring properties. 

“[But] we need facilities for our children that they will be in a safe environment and I am 100 per cent supportive of that.” 

Committee chairman Paul Hilliard added there is not much change to the impact as it could have been a family with four children living there, rather than the proposal. 

Aida McManus, agent for the applicantAida McManus, agent for the applicant (Image: BCP Council)

Aida McManus, agent for the applicant, said: “Wild Orchid Therapeutic Services provides special care to children who are among the most vulnerable to society. 

“By focusing on creating a stable family-centric environment, they ensure that the children receive the support and nurturing that they need.” 

She added: “The proposed use will generate no level of noise, disturbance or traffic movements than an average five-bedroom dwelling especially as children are supervised at all times.” 

There will always be two full-time staff on site, operating on a 24-hour rota system, and a manager on-site Monday to Friday. 

Councillors unanimously gave the application planning consent.