PLANS to build an old people's home were vehemently opposed by West Watford residents this week.

Neighbours claimed the 10-bedroom dwelling in King George's Avenue will bring traffic, noise and pollution to a predominately residential area.

However, town councillors admitted they had no choice but to approve the controversial application, which came up for renewal after winning planning permission five years ago.

On behalf of a group of discontented residents, Mr Carl Moorhouse addressed the development control committee meeting on Tuesday.

He said the home represented a business venture in a residential road which "had greatly benefited over the years from a reverse trend".

He added: "This application has a profit motive and will have no benefit to the local community.

"It is ill thought out from a design point of view.

"This venture would see a great increase in the amount of through traffic from staff, visitors and business vehicles.

"Access restrictions mean they will be forced to park in King George's Avenue, which will lead to arguments with residents who park there.

"It is a narrow road and there won't be enough parking. Neither will we have an increase in supporting infrastructure.

"There are going to be more people coming to the road, which is currently a rat run for Whippendell Road.

"Turning a six-bed plot into a ten-bed business is grounds for refusal.

"If it isn't broken, don't fix it."

Concerns were also raised over a rear extension, which would alter the view from and reduce privacy in neighbouring properties, according to the residents.

Mr Moorhouse suggested building the home on the former Sun printers site in Whippendell Road.

But council officers insisted there were no valid planning reasons to reject the proposal and warned it would go to appeal if the council attempted to block it.

June 19, 2002 16:30