AN ANDOVER woman is celebrating after her hard-fought battle to turn her family home into supported living accommodation has finally paid off.

As previously reported, Maddison Taylor applied in February to convert her family home, Creepers Cottage, into accommodation for those with special needs.

However, the plans were rejected by Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) on the grounds that residents would make “disconcerting noises” and “throw items over neighbouring fences” which would disturb neighbours.

A petition was then set up by the public to have the decision overturned, which gained more than 650 signatures, while Maddison resubmitted her plans in August, saying she “won’t give up without a fight”.

Last week, the social work student’s hard work finally came to fruition as she received confirmation that her appeal had been approved.

The TVBC decision notice, dated November 12, grants a certificate for change of use to the property on Mead Hedges, which will allow it to be used as a six-resident home for people with additional needs.

The application was "fully supported" by Andover Town Council, with a further 13 written representations of support made from residents across Andover.

Reacting to the news, Maddi said: “It’s going to take a while to sink in, but I’m completely over the moon!”

The 23-year-old added: “I want to thank everyone who created and signed the petitions to support this venture, it hasn’t gone unnoticed and I will be forever grateful.”

Maddi has many years experience as a carer, having worked for Andover and District Mencap and other organisations.

The residents at Creepers Cottage will be independent and capable of carrying out ordinary domestic activities such as cooking, hoovering and cleaning, but may require support to carry out these tasks. Maddi's plans indicate that support staff will be available at the site, with provision for overnight carer stays where necessary.

She says the type of provision she plans to provide at Creepers Cottage, as part of her own business Maddison’s Care CIC, is “desperately needed”.

She said: “In the coming months I will be working hard to open this home as soon as possible, of course, whilst completing my degree. SO this challenge won’t be easy, but I can’t wait to get stuck in.

“This provision is desperately needed all around the country, and I won’t stop here. But, for now, watch this space!"