Agenda item

New 3 storey school building and new sports building; associated landscaping, bin store, redeveloped access loop, reconfigured car parking, new accessible parking, and photovoltaic panel canopy; and temporary construction access and parking

The Committee considered a report of the Senior Planning Officer regarding an application for a 3 storey school building and new sports building; associated landscaping, bin store, redeveloped access loop, reconfigured car parking, new accessible parking, and photovoltaic panel canopy; and temporary construction access and parking at Woodham Academy, Washington Crescent, Newton Aycliffe (for copy see file of minutes).

C Shields, Senior Planning Office gave a detailed presentation of the application which included a site location plan, aerial photographs, photographs of the site and a summary of objections received.

The Senior Planning Officer provided an update in relation to the removal of condition 11. as a drainage scheme had since been submitted.

Councillor J Atkinson, Local Member, addressed the Committee to confirm his support of the application.

Although registered to speak, the Agent, Ms M Dychala, declined the opportunity and the Deputy Head Teacher of Woodham Academy, Mr D Morgans addressed the Committee in support of the application.

Mr Morgans confirmed that the school had been built in 1970 and with various challenges due to the constraints of the building and some flooding issues, it was at the end of its lifespan.  The school wanted to provide a modern, attractive learning environment which would also reduce the £50,000 per year maintenance budget as well as reducing the carbon footprint.  He advised that it was important for work to commence on the proposed start date to allow a transition to the new building for the start of the academic year 2024-25.  It was an exciting opportunity that would benefit generations to come, and he requested that Members issue a positive determination.

Councillor Zair was in support of the application and referred to the positivity of new buildings in education.  He moved approval of the recommendation, which was seconded by Councillor McKeon.

Councillor Boyes also supported the application and was pleased to see former new towns thriving.

Councillor Molloy referred to the importance of investing in the next generation and wished the school success for the future.

Resolved

That the application is APPROVED subject to the conditions outlined in the report and completion of an agreement under Section 39 of The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to secure biodiversity management for the life of the development.