A CONTROVERSIAL scheme to extend a Romsey care home will be decided next week.
The application proposes the demolition of 'Mountbatten Wing' at front of Durban House Nursing Home, demolition of 35 Woodley Lane and the construction of an extension accommodating 22 new bedrooms.
It will be decided at Test Valley Borough Council's southern area planning committee on January 31.
The council received 14 objections and one supporting comment.
Sue Mullane, from Romsey & District Society's planning committee, said: “Whilst the planning committee of the Romsey and District Society accepts that there is a need for additional nursing care rooms and the replacement of some unsuitable existing facilities, it wishes to raise an objection to this application on the following grounds. The size and height of the proposed extension will have an adverse effect on the street scene; the ridge height and width being considerably greater than the dwelling to be demolished.
“There will be a negative impact on the dwelling at 35 Woodley Lane from the size of the extension and the overlooking from windows on the north elevation. If built there will be an adverse impact to the character of the area.”
Romsey Town Council's planning committee also objected to the plan. This was on the grounds of the overall size and concerns over inadequate parking.
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Brian Giles, of Wessex Gardens, said: “Having fully studied this planning application based upon the existing drawings, proposed drawings, design statement, all other currently submitted documents and comments etc. I support the proposed extension of the facility.
“The need for this more specialised (i.e. dementia) nursing care facility to be continued on this site in an upgraded format is necessary.
“The surrounding neighbourhood has in the past generally and quietly accepted the current facility for many years. The increase of 10 rooms within the sympathetic design shown, respecting the neighbourhood, the site, street scene and building line will not necessarily destroy this acceptance.”
In the planning officer's report, it said: “The location of the site is in a sustainable location and acceptable in principle. Potential concerns with regard to the impact on highways safety, the amenity of neighbouring properties and protection species have been resolved.”
For more information on the proposals, search 22/00625/FULLS on TVBC's planning portal.
It will be decided at Test Valley Borough Council's southern area planning committee on January 31 at 5.30pm at Crosfield Hall.
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