Objections to design for new Melksham primary school

The plans relate to the recently constructed dwellings on Pathfinder Way, in the Bowerhill area of Melksham.

Within the application for this development, first submitted in 2016, 1.6ha of land was set aside for a primary school.

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According to the application, the majority of the windows on the rear elevation of the school are narrow and the line of sight would prevent overlooking. (Image: Wiltshire Council)

However, two of the new residents in the housing development have objected to the detailed plans for the school.

A resident claims that the design differs from what she was told when purchasing her property.

She commented: “I was told when I came to view (as were other neighbours too) that the school would be in the left corner, NOT overlooking our ‘private’ gardens.

“We were also told it would be one-storey. Myself and other neighbours have made preparations for hot tubs in our garden.

“Preparations that have already cost money. Having children overlook our garden whilst we are swanning round in the ‘privacy’ of our own land is far from wrong and a two-storey building obstruct the nice view completely goes against what I agreed to when buying this property.”

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Brian Lewis added: “The only issue I foresee is the obvious parking issues during drop off and pick up times.

“What assurances can the residents have that this matter has or will be addressed?

“There have been many recent incidents of serious issues surrounding streets getting overrun by parents dropping off and picking up children.”

Given that the applicant is Wiltshire Council, these objections mean that the plans must be determined by a planning committee.

The case officer report states: “The proposal is located closer to the front of the site and adjacent amenities than originally indicated on the original masterplan accompanying the outline application.

“This is to ensure that sufficient outdoor play space can be incorporated with outdoor play space meeting the required play standards guidance.

“This has necessarily meant that the school is closer to the residential development than originally envisaged.

“Notwithstanding this it is considered that the school is located a sufficient distance away from the majority of neighbouring occupiers so as not to be overbearing and fenestration has been designed in such a way that will remove overlooking and any loss of privacy arising.”

The western area planning committee will meet on Wednesday, September 4 to discuss the design of the school.