Old Kenilworth vets could become children's home

An old veterinary surgery in Kenilworth could become a home for children in care if the conversion plans are approved.
This house on 43 Waverley Road could become a home for children in careThis house on 43 Waverley Road could become a home for children in care
This house on 43 Waverley Road could become a home for children in care

The building at 43 Waverley Road was last used as a vets in 2015 and has been empty ever since it closed.

The applicant, Kate Elliott, points out the building was originally a family home before it was a vets, and claims the conversion would therefore be “perfect” for a home to children in care.

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She added: “The property is spacious and potentially homely. It has a safe playing area at the back of the property for sports, activities and games, being a safe gated area.

“The building is situated close to educational facilities and community facilities for the benefit and stimulation of the children.”

Waverley Road resident Jan Ford was supportive of the plans as long as the right people were running the home.

She said: “My only concern is that who ever is going to run this as a home for looked after children is registered with social services and is qualified to run such a home.

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“It’s a good place for a home for looked after children. There are many families with children living in the road and therefore they would be among people with an understanding of the needs of children.

“I hope they consider turning part of the current car park at the rear into a proper garden where the children can play safely.”

However, Dr Victor Jones of Glebe Crescent was more critical, claiming the plans were not specific enough.

He said: “The proposal for change of use of the Waverley Road property to this type of institution will have a considerable effect on the presently residential character of the area.

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“The application is almost completely devoid of detail, for example, the number and age of children to be housed.

“Such details are essential for evaluation of the potential impact on neighbouring properties.

“I believe that the application should be considered in the same way that a proposal to build a small school in the area would be considered.”

Kenilworth Town Council’s comments will discuss the plans at a meeting on Thursday July 28.