Mum’s refuge plan refused after neighbours complain about noise

16th August 2019

Plans to convert a home on Cambridge Road, Southport to a residential institution for single mums and their children, have been refused.

A petition objecting to the application was signed by 94 residents and endorsed by Lib Dem Meols Councillor John Dodd. A petition of support had also been received containing 26 signatures endorsed by Norwood Labour Councillor Mhairi Doyle.

A total of 13 letters of objection were received from neighbouring properties which raised issues including concerns over noise from children and vehicles; overlooking and loss of privacy; an increased risk of fire with three kitchens on three floors and no fire escape shown; and additional parking pressures on an already congested road.

The proposal was for a residential family centre which would provide an initial home environment for up to five families.

Each family would generally consist of a single mother and child. The centre would be used when a referring authority felt that additional support would be appropriate prior to a formal parenting assessment being undertaken.