Plans approved to convert Widnes house into children’s home
A house in Widnes has been granted planning permission to become a children’s home for up to three young people, with the operator saying it will provide a family-style environment
By Cheshire Live
Planning permission has been granted to convert a house on Elizabeth Terrace in Widnes into a children’s home accommodating up to three young people aged between seven and 18.
The application, approved by Halton Borough Council’s planning officers, will allow the property to operate as a small residential care home run by Brightside North West, a Widnes-based provider of children’s services.
Planning documents describe the proposal as a family-style home, where children would receive support to attend school, take part in community activities, develop independent living skills and build positive relationships in a stable home environment.
The operator said the home would be managed by an experienced registered manager who already oversees another Brightside children’s home in Halton that has been rated Outstanding by Ofsted.
No external alterations to the property are proposed as part of the change of use, helping to retain the house’s appearance within the surrounding residential street.
The plans include off-street parking for up to six vehicles.
According to the application, the home would normally be staffed by two care workers between 9.45am and 11pm, with one remaining overnight on a sleep-in shift until 9.45am the following morning. A third member of staff would work between 2pm and 10pm, while the registered manager would make regular visits from Monday to Friday.
Children’s homes of this size are regulated by Ofsted, which is responsible for inspecting residential care providers against national standards for safeguarding, care and leadership.
With planning permission now approved, the operator can proceed with establishing the home, subject to meeting any separate regulatory requirements needed before children can move into the property.