School sports pavilion set for approval despite objections

PROPOSALS for a state-of-the-art sports pavilion in Barnard Castle have been recommended for approval despite concerns from nearby residents.
Planners at Durham County Council say the scheme by Barnard Castle School should get the green light when the area planning committee meets this Thursday. The school has applied for permission for a sports pavillion to the north-east of the main site and to reconfigure the sports pitches.
But the scheme met opposition from people who live in the new housing estate, Five Acres, north of the playing fields off Green Lane.
Sport England initially objected about the loss of playing space but changed its mind after being convinced of the wider benefits including improved facilities and extra community use.
The two-floor pavilion would be built on a mound with the lower floor under ground. The upper floor would be enclosed by glass so spectators could get a 360 degree view. It would feature changing and toilets, a function room and external viewing area.
The plans were altered to remove a second access from the north of the site. It followed objections from residents and Green Lane Primary School. The school feared the route could pose a safety risk to children.
Some 13 letters of objection were received from residents. Concerns included noise and dust pollution during construction; increased noise from outdoor school events when music and public address systems are used; late night functions in the pavilion; loss of wildlife habitat and light pollution.
After the second access road was removed from the plans, residents were again consulted and a further five people made protests.
However, Barnard Castle Cricket Club wrote two letters of support, saying it sometimes uses the school’s pitches for training and matches and looked forward to doing this more in future.
Barnard Castle School said the development would provide much-needed sports facilities for pupils and the community.
A spokesman said: “The school is a major part of the local economy in Barnard Castle and the investment in facilities is part of the school drive to attract, maintain and move forward as one of the North’s leading independent schools.”
Amy Williamson, senior planning officer, said in a report: “The proposed development would enhance existing pitches at the school to create level, well-drained surfaces for sports to be played. The pavilion is a new facility, providing changing facilities and areas for spectating, which would also enhance the existing sporting offer at the school. Both the pitches and pavilion would be available for community use.”
The council said the changes on the ground would result in one more full-sized pitch and an extra junior pitch. Ms Williamson added: “The proposal is imaginative, bold and well-considered and would add to the architectural evolution of Barnard Castle School.”
She said there would be some “limited” private hire by third parties for conference events and parties. But the impact on residents would be limited by restricted pavilion opening hours from 8am to 10pm. In recommending the scheme for approval, she said the benefits outweighed concerns from neighbours.