Dipton youth home plans approved despite ‘crime’ warning

The home, in Bowes Terrace, Dipton, Stanley, will serve young people aged 16 and over, providing 24-hour care from at least two staff members.

It will accommodate six young people after a change in occupancy from adult to young person’s supported living, having been continuously used for care since 1986.

Durham County Council approved the plans on November 17, despite concerns being raised by neighbours about the suitability of the property to house young people.

One resident, drawing from her experience working in children’s homes, opposed the plans due to the potential disruption near an existing care home.

Another said: “Approving this change of use may set a precedent for further conversions of residential properties into institutional uses, undermining the integrity of the local housing stock.”

And another neighbour said: “Dipton already struggles with issues such as crime, drug use, and antisocial behaviour.

“Adding young offenders into the mix could make these problems worse instead of supporting positive rehabilitation.

“Many of our neighbours are elderly and vulnerable. They rely on feeling safe in familiar surroundings, and this proposal could cause them distress and anxiety.”

Proposed changes to the property are internal only, such as the installation of partition walls and the removal of doors, with no external alterations planned.