A ROW between residents and Warrington Borough Council has erupted over plans that have been submitted to the planning committee.

Plans were submitted to council planning bosses on January 11 regarding the change of an address in Fearnhead from a private home to a children's home.

The application is a retrospective submission, as the property is already being used as a children's home, and has been for some time.

Since then, more than 20 opinions have been represented on the council's online planning portal - with the overwhelming majority being against the plans.

Included in the plans is the provision to formally transform the three-bedroom property into a 'small care home for three children and the formation of additional parking.'

A decision about the future of the premises, on Isherwood Close, is due by Thursday, March 16.

Suffice it to say that residents of Isherwood Close are not pleased with the proposed changes.

One resident commented on the plans: "In its current use carers are constantly coming and going both day and night. Fights have been heard to break out, and its current use is totally inappropriate for this location and residential area.

"It must never be altered or changed to become a care home. Isherwood Close should be returned to normal residential use."

The resident added that others have considered moving away from the area: "Already houses close to this property have been put on the market."

Another resident explained that traffic is increasing due to the activity at the property: "I have, over the last 12 months, seen a steady increase in traffic through the close with taxi drop-offs usually outside my house (I assume these are carers).

"There are at times many cars parked away from the property around the corner due to the fact outside the property is already full.

"Any more traffic in such a small area will cause major concern to the residents that are closest to the property."

One resident - who shall remain nameless - spoke to the Warrington Guardian directly, saying: "I am sure none of the residents of the area object to the principle of caring for the children/teenagers concerned, and the need for them to be accommodated.

"It is simply the totally inappropriate location to which we strongly object."

This planning application is currently under consideration by Warrington Borough Council's planning committee, with a decision due by Thursday, March 16.

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