Plans for new houses on former day centre site spark controversy

The site supported adults with learning disabilities for several decades before being closed in 2018 as part of a £3 million Rotherham Council cost-cutting exercise.

RMBC sold the Oaks site after approving the building’s demolition in 2020 — saying it was costing £90,000 in maintenance despite being empty.

Now Thurnscoe-based Hoober Homes has applied to build on the land, saying the estate of mostly three-bedroom properties would enhance the site and surrounding area.

The firm’s application papers add: “Careful consideration has been given to the design, layout and massing of the proposed development.

“As such it is considered that the design of the proposal is appropriate, and it is our view that the new development will have a positive impact on Oak Road.”

Public consultation ends on March 2 and there have been seven objections so far.

One said: “This road at the moment is fairly quiet with the majority of residents nearby being pensioners or elderly and people with specific needs.

“New houses would affect this dynamic and not for the better. We also feel that 29 houses on this site would be excessive.

“Unfortunately, we feel strongly that the Oaks centre was demolished for this proposal and would have much preferred for that to stay and be renovated rather than the current plan, which we feel sure is beneficial financially for the council.”