Flats plan is given green light despite safety fears

PLANS for five flats for vulnerable people have been approved despite objections from residents and parish councillors.

North West Leicestershire district councillors voted through the scheme, for land on the corner of Central Road, in Hugglescote, pictured.

The proposals involve partial demolition of the building on site and the construction of a two-storey block with five assisted living flats for people with health and learning difficulties.

Hugglescote St John’s councillor Russell Johnson told the planning committee building the flats on a junction was a safety risk.

He said: “Something needs to be done to this site as it’s an eyesore and detrimental to the view of our village, but this is not what our village needs.

“The neighbours’ amenities have been compromised and they have been ignored by this council.

“This cannot be right. Does this committee want to cause a serious accident which will cause mayhem and a threat to life?”

“If you had to risk assess this, you’d throw it out immediately,” said Councillor John Geary.

However, Councillor Ray Morris said people’s safety was drivers’ responsibility.

He said: “The junction has traffic lights, so I think that makes it safer. We can’t legislate for people driving over lights when they’re on red.

“As a planning consideration, this is a well-controlled junction. I think we mustn’t overlook the main benefit from this application, which is to provide accommodation for five people who need support.”

Future tenants will not be allowed car parking spaces.

Planners had justified this move, saying they those living there would be without driving licences and cars.

However, this was challenged by a Hugglescote and Donington le Heath Parish Council spokesman, who said: “The applicant’s assumption that vehicles will not be used is incorrect.

“There is already assisted living accommodation in St Mary’s Close in the parish where some residents have Motability or their own vehicles.”