Controversial childcare home that opponents say could put ‘residents at risk’ gets approval

A controversial childcare plan has been approved despite many concerns. Neighbors feared increased traffic and noise from the Brooker Close proposal, but officials disagreed.

The plan, submitted by SBPS Property Limited, sought to convert the existing four-bed house at 7 Brooker Close in Coalville into a childcare home. The biggest change would see the downstairs lounge converted into a manager’s office, while the four bedrooms would remain unchanged.

Four car parks were also originally proposed, but this led to a number of concerns from neighbors as Brooker Street is a narrow cul-de-sac. One objector said: “This road is closed and not passable. Increased traffic will create a risk of accidents and collisions, putting residents at risk.”

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The property currently has a car park as well as a shared car park with neighbours, with potential growth seen as a major issue for many. A neighbor claimed the “quiet residential area” of Brooker Close was “not suitable” for a childcare home.

However, highways teams from Leicestershire County Council disagreed, saying the site was capable of providing “at least” three staff spaces. More cars in the area could park on the street in a move he said would not “have an unacceptable impact on motorway safety”.

Increased noise was also raised by residents, but no major concerns were raised by North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC), which approved the scheme. In its decision, the authority said it had worked with SBPS Property Limited to bring “improvements” to the plan, while also saying the care home plan was “sustainable”.

However, the Council placed restrictions on the scheme, saying the care home could only open if the three car parks were available. It said these spaces cannot be obstructed “at any time” and must always be made available for the care home and not for other purposes, while the applicant should also look at bicycle parking provisions to encourage sustainable transport options for staff.

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