St Teresa’s Close disabled plan refusal angers mum (From Echo)

St Teresa’s Close disabled plan refusal angers mum

9:40am Tuesday 16th March 2010 in

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A WOMAN who has two sons with learning difficulties has criticised the decision to reject plans for a revamped special needs centre in Vange.

Jo-Ann Brindle, 42, of Mellow Purgees, Laindon, spoke of her anger after plans for the project, in St Teresa’s Close, were thrown out by Basildon Council.

The centre – intended for people with conditions including autism, epilepsy, sensory impairment and dementia – was refused planning permission following concerns about parking and over-development.

Mrs Brindle, whose sons Toby, 21, and Ryan, 11, both have moderate learning difficulties with autistic tendencies, said it was a facility Basildon desperately needed.

She is a teaching assistant who regularly works with those who have special needs, and says there are hundreds of parents who were disappointed with the rejection.

She said: “Basildon is crying out for a centre like this – for semi-independent people with learning difficulties – who are older than 19 and looking to become more involved with their communities.

“This was definitely an opportunity missed.

“I just hope next time a similar project comes up, the council gives it the go-ahead, because Basildon really needs to put its house in order when it comes to this type of care.”

Stephen Hillier, the planning committee’s chairman, said Mrs Brindle had raised some valid concerns, but explained members could only make a decision on its planning merits.

He said: “The introduction of the new building would have meant we would have had a ratio of more than one parking space for each resident, which is what we aim for.

“It is a difficult one, because the council is aware of the need for this type of facility locally.

“I suspect the applicant will address the issues raised and come back with a new proposal.”