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An unpopular care home plan deemed to be looking ‘like an office block’ could still go ahead despite being refused by Wokingham borough council.
LNT Developments wanted to build a 66-bed care home for the elderly on land to the west of New Road in Ruscombe. It would serve as a general purpose and specialist care home.
The currently derelict site previously housed a nursery, but has since become an antisocial behaviour and fly-tipping hotspot.
Wokingham borough council’s planning committee refused the proposal in October based on a range of concerns, including the impact on street scene and neighbours.
Now, LNT Developments are appealing the decision, meaning it will be decided by an independent government inspector.
Neighbour Corrine Weaver claimed that the design of the scheme was ‘akin to an office block’, and that dozens of people in such proximity would result in a loss of privacy.
Many committee members were concerned with the impact on the street scene – arguing that the design was out of keeping with the current rural feel of New Road.
Councillor Stephen Conway, ward member for Twyford and Ruscombe, described the design as ‘obtrusive and overbearing’ to neighbours. He also claimed the proposal for a care home went against the vision for the land use in Ruscombe’s Neighbourhood plan.
This plan – which was voted for by residents – says the land could be used for affordable housing, which the area lacks.
With a population of only 1,000 people, a Ruscombe parish council representative said the addition of more than 60 people would ‘adversely affect’ the area.
The parish councillor added there are 24 care homes within five miles of Ruscombe.
But planning officers reminded that there is a ‘significant need for bed spaces for the elderly’ within the Wokingham Borough, which would make a strong argument for overturning a refusal if taken to appeal.
Alistair Wood, the agent for developers, also argued the care home would positively contribute to supporting Wokingham’s elderly population.
Mr Wood said staff for the care home would come from the local community. He added there had been consultation with residents, which had resulted in additional parking and changes to the design of the building to lessen the impact on neighbours.
The appeal will be run by Bridget Holden. Comments from the interested parties, including the council and appellant, have now been submitted but date for the inquiry has yet to be set.
