Applicants were moved to tears when their proposal for a children’s care home was approved by Wiltshire Council, despite nearby residents objecting to the plans.

The application requested permission to use a farm in Upton Scudamore as safe accommodation for up to four young people, with three members of staff being present during the day and two members of staff sleeping at the property overnight.

Upton Scudamore Parish Council had objected to the plans, claiming that the large proportion of elderly residents in the village would mean that the children would be “isolated” and effectively in “lockdown”.

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Wiltshire Council's western area planning committee.Wiltshire Council's western area planning committee. (Image: Wiltshire Council) A further 50 representations were received by Wiltshire Council, expressing concerns that ranged from the impact on “the tranquillity of the village” to the potential for a “constant” changeover of staff.

A representative of the parish council spoke at the planning meeting on Wednesday, October 10, to defend the objection.

Ms Lesley Welsh said: “Even a basic evaluation would have shown that Upton has no facilities to offer young people.”

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A local resident was also present and denied the objections were “nimbyism”.

He argued: “The children concerned deserve a stable and nurturing home.

“Such a home must be appropriately located and not impose undue risks on existing residents.”

The applicants, New Day Children’s Services, attended the meeting to address the committee.

One of the founders, Sam Choules, agreed with objectors that the location was a “tranquil and picturesque” village.

She said: “How amazing for a child who has experienced abuse, neglect, and trauma to wake up in the morning and feel safe, secure and happy in Upton Scudamore.”

“Finding the right child for the right home is key to our operational ethos and we will be reflective of our surroundings at all times.”

Claire Bates, also a founder of the service, added: “Children that have suffered trauma and abuse need a quiet space to begin to build trust again in adults and to help keep them safe from external factors.”

The original application stated that the home would be run “like any other family home”.

Cllr Bill Parks said: “The residents cannot see how the proposed development contributes positively to the character and distinctiveness of Upton Scudamore.”

However, Cllr Pip Ridout noted that the level of noise coming from the site would likely be the same as with any other large family.

Cllr Stewart Palmen agreed: “It seems to make it sound like it’s incredibly difficult to bring up children in a village.”

He said: “I just don’t see what the issue is, and I think it’s an absolutely wonderful place to bring up children.”

Cllr Suzanne Wickham added: “I would also like to comment that Wiltshire Council absolutely needs these types of provisions and I think this one, because of the size of the property and the size of the garden, appears to be very suitable.”

Cllr Jonathon Seed said: “I get slightly irritated when people denigrate our village life which is the basis of so much wholesome development of our children.

“Vulnerable children are just as entitled, in my opinion, to enjoy the advantages of being brought up in a rural location in the same way as millions of other children in this country.”

The committee resolved to approve the application, and the representatives of New Day Children’s Services were moved to tears.

Ms Bates concluded: “We’re really pleased with the outcome of the planning committee and we look forward to helping vulnerable young people in this country and bringing children back to Wiltshire.

“We hope that in future we can alleviate residents’ concerns and work with the local community to make children’s lives better in this country.”