Agenda item

Erection of sports hall including demolition of existing sports facility.

The Principal Planning Officer, Alan Dobie gave a detailed presentation on the report relating to the abovementioned planning application, copies of which had been circulated (for copy see file of minutes).  Members noted that the written report was supplemented by a visual presentation which included photographs of the site.  The application was for the erection of sports hall including demolition of existing sports facility and was recommended for approval, subject to conditions. 

The Committee noted that there had been no objections from the internal and statutory consultees, albeit a response had not been received from the Environment Agency although this was not seen as detrimental in terms of the recommendation for approval.  Members noted comments from the County Ecologist in terms of no objections to the ecology survey submitted with the application, though a Natural England Licence would be required for the proposed development with an informative to be added in this respect.

Members noted that there would be a number of tests that Natural England would apply, and it was noted that the development was in the public interest.  It was added that as the sports hall was part of the school facilities there was no alternative site and the development was to replace an existing sports hall. 

The Principal Planning Officer explained that in terms of protected species and their habitat, there was a condition in terms of a mitigation strategy and a standard informative would also be included in terms of operation hours to deal with issues of noise.   

The Chairman noted there were no registered Speakers and asked Members of the Committee for their questions and comments on the application.

Councillor J Lethbridge noted he was happy to support the Officer’s recommendation and the conditions as described and set out within the report.

Councillor J Lethbridge moved that the application be approved; he was seconded by Councillor G Bleasdale.

RESOLVED

That the application be APPROVED subject to the conditions detailed in the Officer’s report to the Committee.