Plans have been given the green light for a children’s care home in Ynysybwl, despite facing opposition. The Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) planning committee approved the application for a residential care home catering for up to four children at The Bield in New Road on Thursday, September 26. Councillor Scott Emanuel praised the plans, stating that they represent the “absolute gold standard” for children in care and set a high benchmark for future applications.
According to the planning statement accompanying the application, the children’s home will accommodate up to four children aged between 0 and under 19 years, who are under the guardianship of Athena Care Group. These children have been taken into care due to concerns about their physical and emotional well-being, as well as learning disabilities. The statement highlighted that the children are likely to be long-term residents and are expected to transition to independent living as adults.
Despite the approval, South Wales Police did not support the application, citing concerns about the safety and potential exploitation of children placed at the premises due to the high incidence of certain crimes in the area and an alleged oversaturation of care homes in the region. However, the planning report noted that no evidence was provided to substantiate these claims and highlighted the site’s convenient location in a predominantly residential area with easy access to services and amenities.
Nine public objections were raised, expressing worries about potential disturbances and anti-social behaviour from the children, as well as concerns about safety, parking, noise levels, and the suitability of the location. Planning officers recommended approval, emphasising the site’s compatibility with the surrounding residential area, minimal impact on the environment, and maintenance of the property’s residential character.
Local councillors voiced support for the plans, describing the proposed care home as a safe and nurturing environment for the children. Councillor Jill Bonetto called the location a “gorgeous” place for children to reside, underscoring the importance of providing suitable facilities for vulnerable children. She urged the community to understand the necessity of such homes for children in need, emphasizing that issues like anti-social behaviour can arise in any setting.
The approval of the children’s care home in Ynysybwl marks a significant step towards providing a supportive environment for children in care, despite facing opposition from some quarters. The decision reflects a commitment to meeting the needs of vulnerable children and ensuring they have a stable and caring place to call home in the community.