AN appeal against the refusal of plans for a care home in Tiptree has been decided on.

Plans were submitted to change the use of a house at 8 Wilkin Drive in Tiptree to a young persons care home.

The Planning Inspectorate has now dismissed the appeal following a visit to the site.

The application set out to use the existing converted garage on the site as an office for carers.

The plans proved controversial, with a total of 100 objections to Colchester Council.

Residents expressed concerns about the lack of parking spaces outside the property.

There were also concerns about noise and disturbance from vehicle movements.

The application, submitted by Pure Love Care Homes in May 2022, looked to house up to five children aged between six and 14 from the care system.

The plans were refused by Colchester Council in July 2022.

A spokesman for the council said: “The proposal is considered to harmfully impact upon the amenity of the surrounding residential properties due to the intensification of use at the site which is likely to increase the noise and disturbance to the neighbouring properties.

“In addition, the proposed use would result in harmful impact to the character of the surrounding area through a level of intensification that is discordant and inharmonious with the locality.”

A planning inspector ruled the benefits of the proposal did not outweigh the negatives. 

In the decision to dismiss the appeal, inspector Jane Smith said the main issues are: “The effect of the proposed development on the living conditions of neighbouring occupiers, with particular regard to noise and disturbance relating to vehicle movements.

“The effect of the proposed development on highway safety, with particular regard to the risk of conflict between pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles.

“And whether any harm would be outweighed by other material considerations, with particular regard to the effect of the proposal on the availability of residential care and support for young people.”