Issue - meetings

[To consider the application]

The Committee considered a report regarding application 17/00935/FUL, demolition of derelict coach house, extension of car park, extension of existing nursery and landscaping of external teaching areas.

Tracey Homfray, Planning Officer reported on an update to the report since it had been published.  She confirmed that 10 objections had been received, rather than the seven as referred to in the report.

Ms Rosemary Watton addressed the Committee and spoke in opposition to the application.

Ms Jenny Truslove addressed the Committee and spoke in support of the application.

Tracey Homfray confirmed that the issues referred to by Ms Watton in respect of the height of the boundary wall, use of the dual car park area, no opening on Saturdays, the existing entrance gate and patrolling of the car park by staff at opening and closing times were all covered by conditions.  

Several Councillors expressed concern regarding the single vehicle access, parking arrangements and associated safety concerns for pedestrians and asked if parking restrictions or zig zag markings could be imposed.  

Lisa Delrio, Solicitor advised that any condition imposed on an application had to pass six legal tests.  Stephen Alexander, the Head of City Planning and Tim Philpot, Professional Lead – Transport Strategy had given their professional advice that they did not consider that those tests would be met.

Considering the advice given, several Councillors were still concerned about traffic implications and safety and it was proposed and seconded that the application be refused.  The motion was defeated.

In answer to a question regarding parking restrictions, Tim Philpot, Professional Lead – Transport Strategy suggested to members that a Traffic Regulation Order would be a possible way forward to deal with their concerns.

Resolved:

That planning application 17/00935/FUL be granted planning permission subject to appropriate conditions to include those below:

• Materials
• Lighting
• Acoustic fencing
• Wall
• Opening times
• External play times (child numbers, times and usage of car park)
• No dig method of car park construction
• Closure of entrance directly from Woodfield Avenue (prior to occupation of the expansion)

Traffic Regulation Order