Stop discrimination against those with disabilities and learning difficulties

I am a founder member, treasurer and official representative of #NeedsToo, the Andover based organisation that provides support, information and advice for families of children and young adults with severe and complex learning difficulties and disabilities.

We have deep concerns about a decision to refuse planning permission on a residential property : 21/00324/FULLN | Change of use from a C3 (dwelling house) to a C2 (residential institution). This is a 24/7 supported living accommodation for people with learning difficulties and additional needs | Creepers Cottage 11 Mead Hedges Andover SP10 2LU.

We are absolutely appalled at the perceived discrimination applied by Michael Thorne, Senior Environmental Protection Officer at TVBC.

His comments state there may be 'raised voices and banging'. We'd say that the house could alternatively provide accommodation for a family of six or more and we believe it would be highly likely that there were raised voices and banging and far more on any given day, but that would never be put forward as an objection to any family moving in.

He also referred to the possibility of 'disconcerting noises and items being thrown over fences' as apparently there had been an incident at another home in the area that houses residents with learning difficulties. The possibility of balls, toys or other items coming over from a neighbours fence would never be raised as a potential objection to any residents moving house!
It is also extremely unfair to suggest that problems elsewhere may happen at Creepers Cottage. Permission to open a restaurant would not be refused because another in the area had a 0 hygiene rating or rude staff for example.

Creepers Cottage was also noted as being in a built up area, which is far from the truth. It is actually at the end of a very quiet cul de sac that backs onto a brook. Stephen's Ark (now closed) and Rainbow Corner are in far more, populated areas. Immediate and nearby neighbours of Creepers Cottage support the application and those in other streets would not be affected in any way whatsoever.

We believe the refusal goes against both the Human Rights and Equality Acts and that possible future residents are being discriminated against and treated unfairly.

No other potential occupants would be 'vetted' before buying, renting or moving into a house. It is quite shameful, and deeply upsetting, that in 2021 people with learning difficulties are being treated differently to others and continue to be the victims of bias, misunderstanding and outdated misconceptions.
This smacks of the past when those with disabilities were locked away from society, which is quite disgraceful and unacceptable.
We strongly believe that this is a case of disability discrimination and intend to fully support the applicants in any appeal, legal or otherwise.