Three-Bedroom House Could Become 'Vital' Children's Home

A three-bedroom house in the Isle of Wight’s county town could become a children’s home, providing ‘vital accommodation and care services’.

Next Wave Care Group (NWCG) has submitted a proposal to County Hall to create a ‘warm, safe and therapeutic’ environment in a residential property in East Newport.

The firm says its homes ‘empower young people to flourish independently into adulthood’ and provide ‘specialist supported living services for young people with complex needs on the Island’.

Plans for another NWCG care home in Sandown are currently under consultation.

A Planning Statement from NWCG’s agent, Andrew White Planning Consultancy, says:

“The proposed accommodation would comprise three bedrooms (accommodating a total of three children) one of which would be en-suite.

“There would be a main bathroom, staff room, second lounge/sensory room, kitchen/diner and a lounge.

"The important point to note is that the exterior and interior of the property will not change as it is important to maintain the characteristics of being a single-family home and not to feel institutionalised.”

Barton resident Aden Garrett said it “sounds like a lovely idea” but expressed concern over a nearby homeless shelter.

He said:

“Nothing but anti-social behaviour from them and wouldn’t want any of them to upset the children or cause distress.”

The council’s public consultation on application 25/01001/FUL finishes on August 15 and a decision is due on September 8.