Adullam Cave Chapel, Chapel Street, Haslingden, BB4 5QR

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• the effect of the proposed development on the living conditions of occupiers of 26-32 Clegg Street (Nos 26-32), with particular regard to privacy
• whether there is a requirement to demonstrate a clear local need for the proposed use as a children's home and whether the proposed development would contribute to a mixed and balanced community
• the effect of the proposed development on Cave Adullam Particular Baptist Church, a non-designated heritage asset (NDHA)
• whether the proposed development would provide satisfactory living conditions for future occupiers, with particular regard to the provision of private external amenity space

What decided it

The harmful effect on the living conditions of occupiers of 26-32 Clegg Street through increased overlooking of their rear gardens, which would be permanent and significant, outweighed the benefits of the proposed development.

the benefits of securing the reuse of the non-designated heritage asset and providing housing for a group with specific housing requirements did not outweigh the identified harm to neighbouring occupiers' privacy and living conditions