Worksop: Anger at plans to ‘sneak’ through home for ‘at risk’ teens

Bassetlaw Council has received a planning application from G4S Children’s Services for a change of use of facilities at Meadow Holme Farm, Stubbing Lane, into a centre for youngsters between the ages of 10 and 17.

The youths would stay there if they are subject to a court order, are in the care of a local authority, if their parents are unwell, if they have experienced family problems or due to foster care breakdown.

Support worker positions are already being advertised by G4S before planning permission has been granted.

Councillor for Worksop south, Kevin Greaves, said: ”I’m absolutely furious.”

“Why have G4S not been open and honest with local residents about these proposals? I’d say G4S have got some explaining to do.”

“They should do the decent thing and withdraw the planning application immediately and consult local people properly. It’s almost as though they are trying to sneak the application through without telling local people first.”

“Sadly there are a number of children that are in care, and I fully agree they should be given the best help possible. But is this really the right location for a home such as this? Personally I’m very doubtful.”

The application was received on Monday 23rd February and Bassetlaw MP has said the plans are ‘inappropriate’.

Alan Hardwick, of Stubbing Lane, said: “I think it is bad idea, there are a lot of elderly people who live here.”

Kevin Shaw, also of Stubbing Lane, said: “There are pensioners in small single bungalows here so I could understand their concerns.”

No objections for the home, which would occupy five children, have so far been submitted.

Managing director of G4S Children’s Services, Paul Cook, said: “We acknowledge the importance of consultation with local people, so we will be initiating a series of consultation meetings on this application before a decision is made by the council.”