Agenda item - BH2013/01693 - Cardinal Newman Catholic School, The Upper Drive, Hove - Full Planning Permission

Erection of a new three storey detached building to the north of the existing school, alterations to existing Newman building, relocation of 40no car parking spaces to south east corner and associated works.

RECOMMENDATION – MINDED TO GRANT

Erection of a new three storey detached building to the north of the existing school, alterations to existing Newman building, relocation of 40no car parking spaces to south east corner and associated works.

(1)                   It was noted that this application had formed the subject of a site visit prior to the meeting.

(2)                   The Case Officer, Jason Hawkes, introduced the application and gave a presentation by reference to photographs plans and elevational drawings. The application proposed the erection of a three storey sixth form block, and the site was located north of Old Shoreham Road. The school was a mixed secondary Catholic Comprehensive School for pupils aged 11-18; with two large playing fields on the north side of the school. The new sixth form block would allow for an extra 150 pupils and three staff; as well more space and better facilities. The application had sought to reduce the impact of the three storey building by partially excavating so that the building would appear as two storeys from the northern elevation; there would also be photovoltaic panels on the roof. The application proposed the loss of some outside space at the school which policy sought to protect; however, the application involved the relocation of an existing car park to an area of underused hardstanding, and as such there was no objection from Sport for England. The application was considered to be well designed with an appropriate mix of materials, and although it would be higher than the adjacent Newman building it was considered acceptable given the substantial distance to the nearest residential properties. It was also noted that there would be no net loss of parking on the site, and the building would achieve BREEAM level excellent. For the reasons set out in the report the application was recommended to be minded to grant subject to the completion of a s106 agreement and the conditions in report.

Questions for Officers and Decision Making Process

(3)                   It was confirmed in response to a query from Councillor Hyde that the proposed s106 contributions were in line with the prescribed formula used by the Council. Councillor Hyde noted that she was not in support of the proposed level of contribution towards highway improvements.

(4)                   It was confirmed for Councillor Davey that some of the s106 monies would be used for improvements to cycling infrastructure in the area.

(5)                   A vote was taken and planning permission was unanimously granted.

56.1       RESOLVED – That the Committee has taken into consideration and agrees with the reasons for the recommendation set out in paragraph 11 and resolves to be MINDED TO GRANT planning permission subject to the conditions and informatives set in the report and the completion of a s106 agreement.

              Note: Councillor Wakefield was not present at the meeting.