Proposed refurbishment and extension to provide 51 bed spaces.  Demolition of outbuildings.

The Committee were minded to approve the application contrary to the case officer’s recommendation subject to the decision not being called in by the Secretary of State.

The Development Manager (Hereford and Southern Localities) gave a presentation on the application and updates / additional representations received following the publication of the agenda were provided in the update sheet.

In accordance with the criteria for public speaking Mr Claridge, the applicant, spoke in support of his application.

In accordance with paragraph 4.8.2.2 of the Council’s Constitution, Councillor NP Nenadich, one of the local ward members, commented on a number of issues, including:

·         The application should be approved as there was a need for a dementia facility in the city.

·         Patients deserved to be treated with care compassion and dignity.

·         There were examples of elderly people throughout the county who had cared for loved ones whilst they were suffering with dementia, Alzheimer’s or vascular dementia.

·         There comes a time when people can’t be looked after in their own homes and then facilities such as the one proposed are vital.

·         Respite care was a significant benefit to the proposed home, this would give patients an opportunity to develop relationships with carers whilst offering the families much needed assistance.

·         Half of the population of the County resided in the city, hence the need for a care home within the city at a sustainable site such as the one proposed.

·         Then ability for patients to be able to walk around the home was important hence the design proposed.

·         It was predicted that the number of older people with dementia would rise by 92% by 2030.

·         The number of people aged 85+ in the county was estimated to double by 2026.

·         Only 38% of the 565 bed spaces in a 5 mile radius of the proposed site offered single bedrooms with ensuite facilities.

·         Bed blocking was still a major problem in the County.

·         Although the immediate EMI bed requirement was met this would not remain the case in the coming years. The Council needed to be proactive in dealing with the situation.

·         The proposed site had good rail and bus links and was therefore considered to be a sustainable development.

Councillor DB Wilcox, the other local ward member, also commented on a number of issues, including:

·         The comments of the other local ward member were endorsed.

·         The listed building status of the building related to the side and front elevations which needed protecting however the 1970’s additions were of no architectural value and did not add to the character or setting of the original building.

·         The building had been void for four years and was in danger of falling into a dilapidated state.

·         The western elevation may be seen but this is deemed acceptable as part of the overall scheme.

·         The current building was not viable; the proposed extension would make the building a viable proposition.

·         The original application on the site was not acceptable, the applicant came back with a revised plan which was now deemed acceptable.

·         The majority of the concerns raised by the neighbouring resident could be addressed through appropriate conditions.

·         The proposal would preserve and enhance the character  ...  view the full minutes text for item 52