Agenda item

The Committee is requested to consider an application for planning permission, details of which are set out in the accompanying report.

The Committee considered planning application 17/0652 that sought permission for the formation of a Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) on existing playing field, enclosed by 4.5 metre high mesh fencing, erection of equipment store and six 15 metre high floodlights, with associated hardstanding and landscaping including grass bund at Unity Academy, Warbreck Hill Road, Blackpool.

Mr Johnston, Head of Development Management, presented the Committee with an overview of the application and the proposed site layout, elevational plan, location plan and aerial views of the site, including a visual image of the proposed pitch area.  He reported on an amendment to the original scheme to remove access from Cotswold Road and the applicant’s agreement to a reduction in the hours of use of the pitch to end at 9.30pm on Mondays to Fridays.  Therefore the proposed hours of use would be 9.00am to 9.30pm Mondays to Fridays and 9.00am to 6.00pm Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays.  Mr Johnston reported on the measures taken to address the concerns raised by officers from Environmental Protection which included the reduction in hours of use, the continuous bund down the full length of the pitch and the provision of acoustic fencing.  He also reported on the light spill which would be confined to the perimeter of the pitch and not extend to the houses on adjacent roads.

Mr Winter, Public Objector, spoke in objection to the application and raised concerns relating to the impact of the proposal on residents of neighbouring properties, particularly in relation to health, from the proposed use up to 9.30pm.  Further concerns related to an increase in traffic, a lack of evidence that the proposed bund would be an effective noise reduction measure, and light spillage.

Mr Brennand, Applicant, spoke in support of the application, particularly in terms of its benefit for both the school and the local community.  He reported on the consultation undertaken with planning officers and the amendments made in response to concerns raised.  These included a reduction in the hours of use which he considered represented a balance between meeting the financial sustainability of the scheme and providing a facility for young people and satisfying the local community.

Responding to questions from the Committee, Mr Johnston reported on the distances between the fence surrounding the pitch and properties on adjacent roads.  It was also confirmed that the facility would be vacated by the closing time of 9.30pm on Mondays to Fridays.

The Committee acknowledged the concerns raised relating to noise and discussed the effectiveness of the acoustic fencing in reducing the noise impact on the residents of neighbouring properties.  Mr Johnston confirmed that a condition could be imposed on the planning permission, if granted, requiring the submission of a scheme relating to the acoustic fencing being approved by the Local Planning Authority. The Committee considered it would be appropriate to require such a condition to mitigate the impact of noise on the amenities of the residents of neighbouring properties.

Resolved:  That the application be approved subject to the conditions, with an additional condition requiring the applicant to submit for approval by the Local Planning Authority a scheme relating to the provision of acoustic fencing, and for the reasons set out in the appendix to the minutes.

Background papers:  Applications, plans and replies to consultations on the application.

NOTE:  Councillor Hutton, having declared a prejudicial interest, left the room during consideration of this item and took no part in the discussion or voting on the application.