HS12 Pre-School Day Care Policy
Proposals for the use of existing buildings for pre-school day care facilities will be permitted subject to:
(i) ensuring the privacy of neighbouring residents;
(ii) any outdoor play areas provided being assessed with regard to potential noise and disturbance and garden/play area boundaries being defined by a 2.0 metre high screen fence or wall;
(iii) satisfactory vehicular access with provision being made within the site for the parking of non-resident staff vehicles in addition to parking provision made for the occupiers of the house;
(iv) reasonable provision being made for the setting down and picking up of children. Where such arrangements can only take place within the highway, there should be no parking restrictions on the highway fronting the site and it should not be likely to cause a hazard to other road users; and
(v) noise insulation being provided where appropriate.
Reasoned justification :
6.61 Pre-school day care covers a wide range of provision including child minders, play groups, nurseries and creche facilities. All such uses are registered through the Department of Social Services where consideration is given to the type of facilities available within the building and the persons who will be providing the care.
6.62 In planning terms, the major implications are for the amenity of adjoining residents, both in terms of the effect of children playing in and outdoors and in terms of the effect of extra traffic as parents drop off and pick up their children.
6.63 The ideal type of property to provide for pre-school day care is detached, with adequate garden space to provide separation between dwellings and allow for outdoor play.
6.64 Many properties used as crèches and day nurseries are on busy roads and it is important to ensure that adequate provision is made for the parking needs of staff and parents when they are dropping off or picking up their children. Further guidance on provision for pre-school day care is contained in Supplementary Planning Guidance Note 12.