In Broadstairs, a significant shift in the utilization of the Kent House nursing home is causing uproar within the local community. The proposal to convert the existing care facility into a House of Multiple Occupation (HMO) has ignited passionate responses from residents and local organizations. With a focus on the implications for the community’s character and safety, the Kent local council is grappling with a difficult decision that balances urban development with the needs and concerns of its constituents. As discussions unfold, the response from residents underscores the vital role that community input plays in planning and development decisions.
Key Takeaways
- The proposed conversion of Kent House into an HMO has sparked significant community opposition, with 33 objection letters highlighting various concerns.
- Residents fear the transformation will lead to increased traffic, safety issues for local schools, and a shift in the community’s character.
- Despite the backlash, local council recommendations suggest the proposal may proceed pending further contributions from the developer.
Current State of Kent House Nursing Home
The Kent House Nursing Home in Broadstairs is at the center of a contentious proposal to convert the facility into a 21-bed House of Multiple Occupation (HMO). Currently, Kent House caters to up to 25 residents, and the proposed changes, initiated by Mr. Toot from N & I Holdings Limited, suggest minimal alterations to the existing structure. These alterations include reconfiguring internal layouts to introduce shared facilities while preserving current windows and external doors, aiming to address noise and privacy concerns raised by nearby residents. Despite these modifications, the proposal has been met with substantial opposition, evidenced by 33 letters of objection highlighting worries about the loss of a care home, increased traffic congestion, the potential influx of ‘undesirable occupants,’ and safety concerns for local schools. The Broadstairs Society has raised alarms about the character of the neighborhood, traditionally home to older individuals and families. The council’s licensing officer has remarked that the HMO design adequately provides shared kitchen facilities for up to 20 residents, with the potential for double occupancy in bedrooms. Nonetheless, objections persist, prompting a recommendation for the application to be deferred and considered for approval, contingent upon developer contributions. It’s also relevant to mention that Kent House was previously placed in special measures due to an ‘inadequate’ rating by the Care Quality Commission in 2022 when it served 21 residents (CQC, 2022). Local councillor Mike Garner has voiced apprehensions regarding the anticipated adverse effects on traffic and the community if the HMO receives approval. For more information on the topic, please refer to the council documents and residents’ feedback.
Community Concerns and Reactions
Opposition from the community extends beyond individual residents, with organizations like the Broadstairs Society actively campaigning against the change due to fears over the potential shift in neighborhood dynamics. The society emphasizes that the transformation from a care home to an HMO could irrevocably alter the community fabric, which is currently characterized by its predominantly family-oriented demographic and senior citizens. Coupled with this, traffic congestion remains a pivotal concern, as local councillors like Cllr Mike Garner warn that the sudden influx of new residents could exacerbate already strained local infrastructure, particularly affecting school drop-off and pick-up times, which are crucial for safety (Broadstairs Society, 2024). Furthermore, many residents have expressed apprehension regarding the types of individuals an HMO may attract, suggesting it could lead to an increase in transient populations that may not align with the established community values. Overall, the situation remains crucial as local authorities consider both the economic benefits of meeting housing demands against the backdrop of community stability and safety.
