by Trevor Bevins, Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Plans to convert a Crossways home into supported living accommodation has met with opposition in the village.
Otas Supported Living has applied for a change of use to a detached house at 1 Spitfire Close to provide a home for up to six people with three staff during the day and two at night.
Some neighbours claim the residents of the home, if allowed, will present a potential danger to the local community with a play area nearby. Others say the use of the site will add to traffic problems.
A similar proposal last year was turned down by Dorset Council claiming there had not been enough information to make a decision. That outcome is now the subject of an active appeal.
No alterations are planned to the outside of the property which is on the corner of the Close and Mount Skippet Way. Otas say the site has adequate parking for six cars, although staff will be encouraged to cycle or walk to work. They say the site is entirely suitable for the change of use and will provide a convenient home for people who need some support.
One objector claims the proposal is an “ill conceived, badly thought out project which poses a real threat to people’s safety in Crossways.”
Another warns of increases parking problems in the area while a Spitfire Close residents tells Dorset Council in an objection: “The original application described supported living for people with mental health issues and learning disabilities, of any age. The new planning statement reframes the proposal as a residential care home, and referencing older and vulnerable people,” which the neighbour argues leads to uncertainty about who the home is actually intended for.
Said a former Crossways resident, whose family still live in the area: “There is a small children’s park directly opposite the property, which is used daily by families. Many elderly residents also live nearby. Any change that increases activity, traffic or uncertainty affects their sense of safety and wellbeing.”
Several objections claim that while planning consent has not been granted work on conversion has already been carried out on the site.
The full details of the application, P/FUL/2026/00477 , can be found on the Dorset Council website which also offers the ability to comment on the application.
