Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Director of Economy, Transport and Environment regarding a planning application for the construction of a single storey, 3 form entry primary school, with associated car parking and external works at Whiteley Lane, Burridge.

Councillor Roger Huxstep declared a personal interest as pupils from the school would be from his division’s catchment area.

The Committee considered a report from the Head of Strategic Planning (Item 6 in the Minute Book) regarding an application for a new Primary School in Whiteley.

The officer introduced the item and summarised the proposals. Committee was shown a location plan of the area, along with a site plan and 3D elevation plans of the school. It was explained that some elements, including landscaping, had been tailored at request of the Diocese.

There had been no objections to the proposals and no highways concerns regarding the application.  There were three disabled parking spaces in the school car park, which met necessary requirements.

The Committee received one deputation from Nick Yarrow, on behalf of the applicant. Mr Yarrow, who was a Design Manager for the scheme, explained the need of a three-form entry school and how the temporary two-form Primary school would merge across into the new school. The design features of the school were described and it was emphasised how important it was for the school to be part of the local community.

During questions of the deputation, the following points were clarified:

·         The governing body did not want the responsibility of having solar panels on the roof of the building

·         There were four pedestrian entry points around the school, three of which would be closed during school hours with only the north entrance remaining open.

·         There were three disabled parking bays proposed, which had been calculated according to guidance and was proportionate to the number of staff.

·         The chapel was used by the public and had its own independent access, separate to that of the school.

·         There were no proposed parking restrictions in the area and discussions were ongoing with the developer to ensure there would be enough parking in the local area.

·         It was anticipated that 42% of those attending the school were within 20 minutes walking distance of the school.

·         A proposed draining strategy was in place for beneath the school pitches which would ensure there was no flooding.

During questions of the officer, the following points were clarified:

·         The enforcement team would monitor the school and ensure conditions were being met.

·         A new site had the advantage of being close to retail areas and other measures were in place to encourage walking to school as part of the travel plan.

·         Travel plans were reviewed on a regular basis to see whether they needed updating and reviewing.

Members did have concerns regarding the parking arrangements and lack of drop-off/pick-up spaces, where as others felt that the location was ideal and would allow it to work. It was acknowledged that arrangements were much better than established schools in more urban areas.

RESOLVED:

Planning permission was GRANTED subject to the conditions listed in integral appendix B and any amended or additional conditions required following the receipt of all consultation responses.

Voting

Favour: 13

Against: 1