Children's home plans deferred over crime fears

Councillors agreed to defer the decision to review figures

A decision on controversial plans for a new children’s home in County Durham has been deferred.

Residents told how anti-social behaviour and disorder linked with the Bowburn property were impacting the community, with police called multiple times a day.

Applicant Lee Sowerby of Juniper Care and Support, who refuted the criticism, applied for the home to operate for up to three years and house two children.

Councillors agreed to defer a planning application decision so the committee could further review crime figures.

Proposals had been recommended for approval by the council's planning authority.

The property has already been used as an unregulated crisis arrangement service, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Mr Sowerby said his company had cared for three children since February 2023, with one child currently under its care.

Independent Group councillor Jan Blakey, whose ward covers Bowburn, said the area had become a hotspot for children’s homes.

“The police have been at this property so many times you can’t count," she said.

The meeting heard how Joy Allen, Labour's Durham Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), had raised concerns about the demand on policing from children’s homes, including responding to children reported missing.

Sarah Wilkinson, on behalf of residents, said families felt intimated by the presence of the facility.

She said: “Many residents feel anxious in their homes; we should not have to live like this."

Mr Sowerby said the company had hired experienced staff, who previously worked with looked-after children.

He added: "There are very few one or two-bed homes in County Durham that can offer specialist care and support to meet the needs of our most challenging children and young people."

Conservative councillor Patricia Jopling said she had “serious concerns” with the proposal.

“I am not criticising the company doing it, but I don’t think this committee can ignore what’s going on in the area to add to the burden these residents are suffering,” she added.

A decision will be made at a later date.