Report attached.

The Committee received a presentation for the construction of a 300 pupil school for pupils with special educational needs with associated access, pupil pick up and drop off, parking and outdoor play/amenity spaces.

The proposed development was presented to enable Members to view it before a planning application is submitted and to comment upon it. The development does not constitute an application for planning permission and any comments made upon it are provisional and subject to full consideration of any subsequent application and the comments received as a result of consultation, publicity and notification.

The proposed planning application has been the subject of pre-application meetings with Officers. There have been five (5) pre-application meetings including one workshop with officers and the scheme has evolved over the months. The proposal was presented to the Council‘s Quality Review Panel on the 6 May 2025. It was also stated that pre-application discussions with the applicants have included the principle of the development proposed including quantum of development, massing, height layout, access, parking arrangement and landscaping planning that have been undertaken by the applicants subject to a masterplan being developed for the site.

As set out in the committee rules, the Developer Team was given 20 minutes to present the scheme.

A Ward Councillor, Councillor Keith Prince also addressed the Committee on the development presentation.

The Committee noted the presentations and discussed the development. The following considerations were summarised as the points raised by the Committee at the meeting:

1.    Second Presentation Request

The Committee has requested that the proposal return for a second development presentation. A revised submission will be required, with encouragement for the applicant to focus on following key areas.

2. Travel Modes and Site Access

Following extensive discussion regarding travel modes to the site, particularly in relation to car parking and pick-up/drop-off arrangements.

The Committee sought clarity on the percentage split of travel modes and reassurance  regarding the capacity for minibuses and coaches to access and manoeuvre within the site. It was suggested that a drawing should be included to support this aspect.

3. Traffic and Road Modelling

Further detail is requested on road speeds and traffic flows into and out of the site.

Specific modelling of a 20mph speed scenario outside the school is needed to assess feasibility and impact.

4. Playing Field Concerns

Concerns were raised about the loss of playing field space.

Justification for this loss should be further developed, including evidence of historic and proposed usage.

5. Floodlighting and Outdoor Space

Clarification is needed on whether the outdoor space (eg MUGA) will be floodlit.

It was noted that this aspect is currently under development and should be addressed in the next submission.

6. Staff Parking Provision

The number of staff parking spaces in relation to proposed staff numbers was discussed.

Justification for the proposed provision should be expanded to demonstrate rationale.

7. Comparative SEND Provision

The Committee would like to see comparative examples of other SEND schools to better understand the proposal in context.

8. Ventilation and Landscaping

Further information is requested on the proposed ventilation strategy.

Reassurance is also sought regarding the longevity and maintenance of planting schemes.

9. Coach Access and Turning Space

Concerns were raised about the adequacy of turning space for large coaches.

It was suggested that the access route be widened to prevent obstruction and ensure safe manoeuvring.

10. Safety and Fleet Protection

The Committee recommends that both councils engage with operators to understand how fleets are protected, especially for large vehicles entering and exiting the site.

This includes contractors and delivery services.

11. Delivery Timing and Conditions

There was a note regarding delivery times and their convenience, particularly in relation to site access. It was stated that this should be captured and addressed in the next submission.

Members were informed that any further comments and questions be sent to planning officers within the next week.