Planning Statement

PLANNING STATEMENT

CROFTLANDS JUNIOR SCHOOL, OAKWOOD DRIVE, ULVERSTON

PLANNING STATEMENT

On behalf of: Keepmoat Regeneration and the ESFA

In respect of: Croftlands Junior School, Oakwood Drive, Ulverston

Date: July 2017

Reference:2809le/R001

Author: MD

DPP Planning Second Floor 1 City Square Leeds LS1 2ES

Tel: 0113 350 9865 E-mail [email protected]

www.dppukltd.com

CARDIFF LEEDS LONDON MANCHESTER NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

Contents

1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 4

2.0 SITE DESCRIPTION AND CONTEXT ...... 6

3.0 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ...... 8

4.0 NATIONAL PLANNING POLICY CONTEXT ...... 11

5.0 LOCAL POLICY CONTEXT ...... 17

6.0 PLANNING ASSESSMENT ...... 22

7.0 STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT ...... 29

8.0 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS ...... 33

List of Appendices

APPENDIX 1: CONSULTATION LEAFLET DISTRIBUTION MAP

APPENDIX 2: CONSULTATION LEAFLET

APPENDIX 3: CONSULTATION PUBLIC NOTICE

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1.0 Introduction

1.1 This Planning Statement has been prepared by DPP for Keepmoat Regeneration on behalf of the Education & Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) in support of the planning application for the construction of a replacement Junior School at the site of the existing Croftlands Junior School, Oakwood Drive, Ulverston, including demolition of the existing building and ancillary blocks following completion.

1.1 This planning statement should be read alongside the following documents and plans which form part of the application package:

• Application form; • Preliminary Ecological Appraisal prepared by Mott Macdonald; • Bat Inspection Report by Brooks Ecological • Arboricultural Impact Assessment and Method Statement prepared by tba; • Tree Survey Report prepared by tba; • Flood Risk Assessment and sustainable Drainage Report prepared by MJM Consulting; • Transport Statement prepared by Systra; • School Travel Plan prepared by Croftlands Junior School • Ground Investigation Report prepared by Mott Macdonald; • Factual Report on Ground Investigation prepared by ESG; • Design and Access Statement prepared by DLA; • Acoustic Feasibility Survey prepared by Mott Macdonald; • Demolition Phase Plan prepared by Keepmoat • CEMP prepared by Keepmoat • Suite of plans prepared by DLA • Croftlands Junior School Boundary Plan • Ground Floor Plan (Drawing No: CRFT-DLA-ZZ-00-DR-A-2000) • Roof Plan (Drawing No: CRFT-DLA-ZZ-00-DR-A-2002) • Proposed Elevations (Drawing No: CRFT-DLA-ZZ-00-DR-A-2030) • Proposed Sections (Drawing No: CRFT-DLA-ZZ-00-DR-A-2035) • Proposed Site Layout Plan (Drawing No 2017-087_9100 C) • Proposed External Works (Drawing No 2017-087_9101 B) • Proposed Levels (Drawing No 2017-087_9102 C) • Proposed Fencing (Drawing No 2017-087_9103 B) • Access and Security (Drawing No 2017-087_9105 C) • Proposed Landscape Layout (Drawing No 2017-087_9106 E) • BB103 Areas (Drawing No 2017-087_9107) • Low Loader Swept Paths (Drawing No 2017-087_9109 B) • Tree Survey Plan 5496.01 prepared by tba; • Tree Protection Plan 5496.02A prepared by tba; • Construction Phasing Plan

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1.1 This application has been made following detailed pre-application discussions with Cumbria County Council as the Local Planning Authority (LPA), key stakeholders and the local community. Full details of this engagement are discussed within the ‘Statement of Community Involvement’ section at chapter 7.

1.2 The statement takes the following structure:

• Chapter 2: Site Description and Context; • Chapter 33: Proposed Development; • Chapter 4: National Planning Policy Context; • Chapter 5: Local Planning Policy Context; • Chapter 6: Planning Assessment; • Chapter 7: Statement of Community Involvement • Chapter 888:8::: Summary and Conclusions

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2.0 Site Description and Context

2.1 This chapter will describe the application site and its surrounding context. The chapter will also discuss the planning history of the site.

The Application Site

2.2 The application site is located on Oakwood Drive, approximately 1.5km to the South of Ulverston town centre, within the South Lakeland District of Cumbria. The wider school complex incorporates both Croftlands Junior School and Croftlands Infant School as well as grassland and recreation space. The Infant School is, however, excluded from this application. Existing access to the site is at Oakwood Drive to the Southern boundary.

2.3 The site is bound by Moutbarrow Road to the West and Mount Barnard View and Maple Avenue to the East. The surrounding land use is primarily residential dwellings. These can be found to the Southern and Eastern boundaries of the site. The North and West boundaries of the site are comprised of primarily residential property and also open green space.

2.4 As indicated by Historic England, the following listed buildings are in the general location of the site:

• Grade IIII*:*:*:*: Friends Meeting House Approximately 180m NW of the site • Grade II:II:II: Wilsons Monument, Ulverston Cemetery Approximately 600m NE of the site • Grade IIII*:*:*:*: Swarthmoor Hall Approximately 600m NE of the site

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• Grade II:II:II: The Nook Approximately 700m SW of the site

1.2 With regard to flood risk, the Environment Agency’s online Flood Risk Map indicates that the site is located within Flood Zone 1 and is therefore at low risk of flooding.

1.3 There are no Tree Preservation Orders (TPO’s) on the proposed site.

Planning History

2.5 A search of Cumbria County Council’s online planning records highlighted a number of historical planning applications at the development site.

2.6 A summary of this planning history can be seen in the table below:

Application Ref. Development Description Decision 5/74/1273 Prefabricated temporary Approved 04/03/75 classroom unit 5/75/0812 Single storey demountable Approved 01/07/75 classroom unit 5/75/0815 Single storey demountable Approved 06/10/7 5 classroom unit 5/76/0598 Single storey demountable Approved 30/07/76 classroom unit 5/77/1219 Kitchen and storage Approved 26/12/77 5/80/0973 Renewal of 3 temporary Approved 11/08/80 classroom units 5/88/1417 Double temporary classroom Approved 28/06/88 with central resource area 5/88/1902 Retention of 3 temporary Approved 25/07/88 classroom units 5/89/1220 Re -cladding and internal Approved 31/05/89 alterations 5/91/1169 Re -cladding as part of Approved 02/08/91 classrooms 5/91/1169 Re -cladding part of classrooms Approved 02/08/91 5/92/9008 Classroom extension and Approved 29/05/92 recladding

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3.0 Proposed Development

Background

3.1 The application seeks the construction of a replacement Junior School at the existing site of Croftlands Infant and Junior School, and the demolition of the existing Junior School building.

3.2 The new Junior School is required as part of the Priority Schools Building Programme, to address identified needs for refurbishment resulting from deterioration of the timber frame, failure of external cladding and widespread asbestos in the existing building.

3.3 The layout of the existing building is also unsuitable to the school’s needs, poor circulation means students have to pass through one classroom to enter another.

3.4 Due to the degradation of the existing Junior School, and the disruptive nature of the building, a new build is the most appropriate option.

3.5 The existing Junior School shares a site with the Infant School, along with a shared field, and there are no barriers or fences between the schools. The Infant and Junior School will continue to share car parking and soft play areas during and following completion of the project, therefore the new build and demolition will require phasing of construction works.

3.6 The Junior School has a mixed sex 2 FE intake, largely taken from the infant school. The school is not currently at PAN capacity of 60 and instead has between 33 and 46 students in each year group. The overall capacity of the school is 240 pupils, with currently 157 pupils registered. As such the school is currently at 65% capacity.

3.7 The site is situated in a residential area, with the grounds including a large playing field, two playgrounds and a wooded wildlife area. The Junior School lies to the east of the site and the Infant School to the west. The schools are separated by a staff car park used by both schools. Joint activities, including regular teaching and transition projects take place between the two schools.

The Proposal

3.8 This application is for Full planning permission for the construction of a new build junior school, and demolition of existing junior school, on a site shared with Croftlands infant school. The capacity of the proposed school will stay the same as existing; at 240 pupils.

3.9 The new school will comprise a single-storey building located to the north of the existing Junior School in the east of the site, along with modifications to the existing car park. The proposed floor plans submitted as part of the application package illustrate what is to be included within the design.

3.10 In addition to the above, the proposed development will also incorporate a new hard outdoor PE area and soft informal recreation space.

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3.11 An assessment of the existing and proposed sports facility provision is contained within Section 6, the ‘Planning Assessment’.

3.12 The existing Junior School building will be demolished during phase 2 of the development, when the new building is completed.

3.13 The existing infant school building, to the west of the site, along with its play area to the north, will be retained.

Layout

3.14 The site layout plan (ref:2017-087_9100 C) provides an overview of the proposed development. The proposals show the intention to demolish the existing Junior School building and provide a new Junior School north of the existing building.

3.15 As set out in the accompanying Design & Access Statement, the new location of the building allows for connections to still be kept between the Infant and Junior schools, whilst placing the building in the heart of the site. The area of hard PE space taken up by the new building will be re-provided ensuring it is of an equivalent size and shape. This is indicated in the landscape layout submitted (ref:2017-087_9106 E).

3.16 The school area layout plan shows the new school building situated just east of the centre of the site, with a large expanse of existing soft outdoor space to the north. To the south of the new school building is a hard-outdoor PE space. The location of each of these spaces immediately adjacent to the Junior School building will provide access directly from classrooms for use as informal teaching spaces. The existing infant school, and associated outdoor space remains as current.

3.17 The existing car park, between the two existing school buildings is to be retained, and layout revised. The modified car park will remain accessible from Oakwood Drive and include new parking bays, pedestrian access, a new refuse store and a delivery turning area.

Access

3.18 The school will remain accessible from one vehicular access point on Oakwood Drive at the north of the site, leading into the modified car park. 32 car parking spaces will be provided, which is the same as existing.

3.19 The existing pedestrian access which runs from Oakwood Drive will be modified to suit the new site layout, running north to the new school building. Vehicular and pedestrian access will be separated by soft landscaping.

3.20 Cycle access has also been incorporated at the north of the site at Oakwood Drive, leading to a new cycle shelter next to the school, with capacity for approximately 10 bikes. No internal drop off facilities have been provided for within the site.

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3.21 Delivery access, playing field maintenance and emergency vehicle access routes will be created around both the east and west sides of the new school building.

3.22 The exact site access arrangements are shown on the access and security plan (ref: 2017-087_9105 C) and further details are provided within the Transport Statement proposed by SYSTRA.

Scale

3.23 The new school building is to be of single storey, with a GEA of 1,383 square metres. The gross internal floor space of the existing school is currently 1,321 square metres, the new build school is proposed to be marginally larger, at 1,334 square metres GIA.

Appearance

3.24 The proposed external appearance of the new build is fully illustrated and discussed in greater detail within the submitted plans package and accompanying design and access statement. In summary, the exterior of the school building is to be constructed out of brickwork with ‘Western Red’ Cedar Boarding laid both vertically and horizontally. The windows will be PPC aluminium with PCC louvre to match the windows. The doors will also be PPC aluminium double glazed, with a curtain walling system and opening lights where required. A louvre screen to plant area sits above the kitchen.

Landscaping

3.25 The application is accompanied by detailed landscaping proposals which show how the land which currently accommodates the existing school building will be reinstated once the building is demolished. As shown by the plan most of this land will be used as a hard-outdoor PE area.

3.26 The proposal will require a small number of trees and bushes at the centre of the site to be removed. However, an increased amount of amenity grass seed and trees are proposed at the entrance to the site and leading up to the new school building. Soft landscaping will run alongside the modified pedestrian access and extend all the way from the front of the site to the back of the new school building along the east side of the site.

3.27 In terms of hard landscaping, the predominant surface to building surrounds will be a new asphalt pedestrian foot path, leading into an asphalt play area. Existing hardstanding, at the demolition of the existing Junior School, will be removed and suitably prepared for new soft landscaping. As indicated on the landscape layout plan (ref:2017-087_9106 E).

3.28 Soft landscaping in the form of a soft outdoor PE area extends north of the Infant and Junior schools and this will be retained. Soft informal space and social areas will also be retained to the west and south of the new build junior school where possible.

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4.0 National Planning Policy Context

4.1 The following Government documents and statements are of relevance when assessing planning applications for Class D1 (in particular, non-residential educational) uses.

National Planning Policy Framework (‘the NPPF’) (March 2012)

4.2 The NPPF published in March 2012 sets out the Government’s economic, environmental and social planning policies for England; supporting sustainable economic growth.

4.3 The NPPF seeks to achieve sustainable development which is defined as, ‘ meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs ’ and also promotes the presumption in favour of sustainable development.

4.4 Emphasis on the importance of the social element of sustainable development is clearly identified at paragraph 7 of the NPPF, it states that the planning system should support,

‘strong, vibrant and healthy communities.... by creating a high quality built environment, with accessible local services that reflect the community’s needs and support its health, social and cultural well-being’.

4.5 As is identified at paragraph 9 of the NPPF, pursuing sustainable development means seeking to make positive improvements in the quality of the built, natural and historic environment, as well as in peoples’ quality of life, including: replacing poor design with better design; and improving the conditions in which people live, work, travel and take leisure.

4.6 As set out at paragraph 14, with regards to decision taking a presumption in favour of sustainable development means:

‘Approving development proposals that accord with the development plan without delay; and where the development plan is absent, silent or relevant policies are out of date, granting planning permission unless:

• Any adverse impacts of doing so would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the Framework taken as a whole; or • Specific policies in the Framework indicate development should be restricted’ .

4.7 The NPPF contains 12 ‘core planning principles’ at paragraph 17. As identified within the Framework, these principles should, ‘ underpin both plan-making and decision taking ’ and specifically state that planning should: ‘ not simply be about scrutiny, but instead be a creative exercise in finding ways to enhance and improve the places in which people live their lives;….always seek to secure high quality design and a good standard of amenity for all existing and future occupants of land and buildings;… and take account of and support local strategies to improve health, social and cultural wellbeing for all, and deliver sufficient community and cultural facilities and services to meet local need ’.

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4.8 The NPPF constitutes guidance for local planning authorities and decision-takers both in drawing up plans and as a material consideration in determining applications. In light of this it is important to highlight the key points within the various thematic areas into which the framework is split, that should be given due consideration in the determination of the development hereby proposed.

• Section 4: Promoting sustainable transport – identifies that all developments that generate significant amounts of movement should be supported by a Transport Statement or Transport Assessment. It states that, ‘ development should only be prevented or refused on transport grounds where the residual cumulative impacts of development are severe’.

This section of the Framework identifies Travel Plans as being a ‘key tool’ in exploring opportunities for the use of sustainable transport modes.

• Section 7: Good design - attaches great importance to the design of the built environment and states that it is a key aspect of sustainable development and, ‘should contribute positively to making places better for people’ . It identifies that decisions should aim to ensure that developments:

• ‘Will function well and add to the overall quality of the area…; • Establish a strong sense of place…; • Optimise the potential of the site to accommodate development…and support local facilities…; • Responds to local character and history, and reflect the identity of local surroundings and material…; • Create safe and accessible environments…; and • Are visually attractive as a result of good architecture and appropriate landscaping’ .

• Section 8: Promoting healthy communities – is of particular relevance in the determination of this planning application as it highlights that the planning system, ‘ can play an important role in facilitating social interaction and creating healthy, inclusive communities’ .

Having specific regard to educational facilities, this section of the NPPF identifies that the, ‘local planning authorities should take a proactive, positive and collaborative approach to meeting this [ensuring that a sufficient choice of school places is available to meet the needs of existing and new communities] , and to development that will widen choice in education. They should:

• Give great weight to the need to create, expand or alter schools [our emphasis]; and • Work with schools promoters to identify and resolve key planning issues before applications are submitted’.

This section of the Framework also deals with open space, sports and recreational buildings and land, including playing fields. Paragraph 74 states that such land should not be built on unless:

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• ‘An assessment has been undertaken which has clearly shown the open space, buildings or land to be surplus to requirements; or • The loss resulting from the proposed development would be replaced by equivalent or better provision in terms of quantity and quality in a suitable location; or • The development is for alternative sports and recreational provision, the needs for which clearly outweigh the loss.’

Decision Taking

4.9 Within the NPPF it is stated that the Development Plan remains the statutory basis for the determination of planning applications unless material considerations indicate otherwise and that the NPPF is a material consideration in planning decisions.

4.10 The NPPF establishes that LPAs should approach decision taking in a positive way to foster the delivery of sustainable development; they should look for solutions rather than problems and should seek to approve applications for sustainable development wherever possible (paragraphs 186 and 187).

4.11 Paragraph 197 states that ‘in assessing and determining development proposals, local planning authorities should apply the presumption in favour of sustainable development’.

Implementation

4.12 Paragraph 215 states that ‘In other cases and following this 12-month period, due weight should be given to relevant policies in existing plans according to their degree of consistency with this framework (the closer the policies in the plan to the policies in the Framework, the greater the weight that may be given)’.

4.13 Paragraph 216 states that ‘From the day of publication, decision-takers may also give weight to relevant policies in emerging plans according to:

• The stage of preparation of the emerging plan (the more advanced the preparation, the greater weight that may be given); • The extent to which there are unresolved objections to relevant policies (the less significant the unresolved objections, the greater the weight that may be given); and • The degree of consistency of the relevant policies in the emerging plan to the policies in this Framework (the closer the policies in the emerging plan to the policies in this Framework, the greater the weight that may be given)’.

The National Planning Practice Guidance (‘the NPPG’) (March 2014)

4.14 The NPPG defines what a ‘healthy community’ is. It states that, ‘a healthy community is a good place to grow up and grow old in. It is one which supports healthy behaviours and supports

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reductions in health inequalities. It should enhance the physical and mental health of the community and, where appropriate encourage:

• Active healthy lifestyles are made easy through the pattern of development, good urban design, good access to local services and facilities; green open space and safe places for active play…and is accessible by walking and cycling and public transport. • The creation of healthy living environments for people of all ages which supports social interaction. It meets the needs of children and young people to grow and develop, as well as being adaptable to the needs of an increasingly elderly population…’

4.15 The way in which open space should be dealt with during the determination of a planning application is also provided further guidance within the NPPG. It states that open space, which includes all open space of public value, ‘ can take many forms, from formal sports pitches to open areas within a development, linear corridors and country parks’. In assessing the needs for sports and recreational facilities the Guidance identifies that authorities and developers should refer to Sport England’s guidance.

4.16 In addition to the above, the NPPG also provides support and guidance to be read alongside the NPPF on a variety of areas including: design; the natural environment and transport assessments and statements in decision-taking.

Ministerial Policy Statement

4.17 The government published a ministerial statement In August 2011 setting out the Government’s commitment to support the development of state funded schools and their delivery through the planning system.

4.18 The statement indicates that state-funded schools educate the vast majority of children in England. Therefore, the government want to enable new schools to open, good schools to expand and all schools to adapt and improve their facilities.

4.19 The Government states that:

‘the creation and development of state-funded schools is strongly in the national interest and that planning decision-makers can and should support that objective, in a manner

consistent with their statutory obligations. We expect all parties to work together proactively from an early stage to help plan for state-school development and to shape strong planning applications. This collaborative working would help to ensure that the answer to proposals for the development of state-funded schools should be, wherever possible, “yes”.

4.20 The government believes that the planning system should operate in a positive manner when dealing with state funded schools, and the following principles should apply with immediate effect;

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• There should be a presumption in favour of the development of state funded schools, as expressed in the National Planning Policy Framework; • Local Authorities should give full and thorough consideration to the importance of enabling the development of state-funded schools in their planning decisions; • Local authorities should make full use of their planning powers to support state-funded schools applications; • Local authorities should only impose conditions that clearly and demonstrably meet the tests set out in Circular 11/95; • Local authorities should ensure that the process for submitting and determining state- funded schools’ applications is as streamlined as possible; • A refusal of any application for a state-funded school, or the imposition of conditions, will have to be clearly justified by the local planning authority; • Appeals against any refusals of planning permission for state-funded schools should be treated as a priority; • Where a local planning authority refuses planning permission for a state-funded school, the Secretary of State will consider carefully whether to recover for his own determination appeals against the refusal of planning permission.

Other National Planning Considerations

Sports England Guidance

4.21 Sport England are statutory consultees for planning applications where development is likely to affect the use of land as playing fields , as detailed within the Town and Country (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2010. As such Sport England will therefore consider the application in light of its playing fields policy.

4.22 The body’s playing pitch policy is contained within its document: ‘Planning Policy Objective 2 of the Spatial Planning for Sport and Active Recreation: Development Control Guidance Note (2009)’. The aim of Sport England’s policy is to ensure that there is an adequate supply of quality pitches to satisfy the current and estimated future demand for pitch sports within the area. The policy seeks to protect all parts of the playing field from development and not just those which, for the time being, are laid out as pitches. The policy states that:

“Sport England will oppose the granting of planning permission for any development which would lead to the loss of, or would prejudice the use of, all or any part of a playing field, or land last used as a playing field allocated for use as a playing field in an adopted or draft deposit local plan, unless, in the judgement of Sport England, one of the following specific circumstances applies:

• E1: A carefully quantified and documented assessment of current and future needs has demonstrated to the satisfaction of Sport England that there is an excess of playing field provision in the catchment, and the site has no special significance to the interests of sport.

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• E2: The proposed development is ancillary to the principal use of the site as a playing field or playing fields, and does not affect the quantity or quality of pitches or adversely affect their use. • E3: The proposed development affects only land incapable of forming, or forming part of, a playing pitch, and does not result in the loss of, or inability to make use of any playing pitch (including the maintenance of adequate safety margins), a reduction in the size of the playing area of any playing pitch or the loss of any other sporting/ancillary facility on the site. • E4: The playing field or playing fields which would be lost as a result of the proposed development would be replaced by a playing field or playing fields of an equivalent or better quality and of equivalent or greater quantity, in a suitable location and subject to equivalent or better management arrangements, prior to the commencement of the development. • E5: The proposed development is for an indoor or outdoor sports facility, the provision of which would be of sufficient benefit to the development of sport as to outweigh the detriment caused by the loss of the playing field or playing fields”.

4.23 The Town and Country Planning (Playing Fields) (England) Direction 1998 which applies to all local authority-owned playing fields and all others which are currently used, or have been used in the past five years, by educational institutions, requires LPAs to notify Secretary of State when they are minded to grant planning permission for a proposed development if Sport England has objected to that development.

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5.0 Local Policy Context

5.1 Although the determining Local Planning Authority is, in this case, Cumbria County Council, pre- application discussions have confirmed that the policies of South Lakeland District Council will be the guiding policies in the determination of this planning application. As such, these are reviewed below.

5.2 The development plan for South Lakeland District Council is currently comprised of the Local Development Framework Core Strategy 2010 and the Local Plan land allocations document 2013. There are also some saved Policies from the South Lakeland Local Plan dated 2006 although these are of limited relevance to the application site any more.

Core Strategy 2010

General Policies

5.3 Policy CS1.1: Sustainable Development Principles refers to mitigation measures in response to climate change. The policy states that opportunities must be taken in order to ‘ address flood risk, improving waste management, improving air quality, strengthening ecosystem services to enhance resilience of the natural environment, minimizing the use of non-renewable resources and increasing the proportion of energy derived from renewables or other more sustainable options .’

5.4 Policy CS1.2 indicates as part of the development strategy that development will be concentrated in the towns of Kendal and Ulverston. These areas are defined as Principal Service Centres. The policy goes on to state that:

‘approximately 55% of new housing and employment development will be in the Principal Service Centres of Kendal and Ulverston, comprising 35% in Kendal and 20% in Ulverston’.

5.5 Paragraph 4.14 discusses the town of Ulverston and states in relation to recent and upcoming development:

‘The form and structure of Ulverston, including the streets, rear plots and various public open spaces, are greatly influenced by the medieval settlement form. Buildings tend to be post medieval in origin and there is a significant number of good quality terraced Georgian and Victorian town houses in streets that are often of high environmental quality. The relatively small market place is well defined by continuous rows of commercial and retail buildings and has a bustling character and distinctive appearance. New Market Street was a late Victorian development that sought to bring a more fashionable shopping experience to the town. Pedestrian permeability through the town is excellent and County Square provides a prestigious focus for civic activities, although the passage of the adjacent A590 is physically and visually disruptive. An enhancement scheme has been completed recently at County Square in Ulverston, including creating a public open space with public access and installation of a Stan Laurel statue to celebrate the heritage of the town. It is hoped that the scheme will create a focal point for the town centre and will host community

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events. The conservation area covers much of Ulverston’s central area, with strong collective identity and over 200 listed buildings.’

5.6 Policy CS9.2 refers to developer contributions and states what is required for new developments.

‘the Council will require new developments to secure improvements which are necessary to make the development acceptable by planning condition or obligations, and these must be phased so as to be in place in accordance with any agreed time frame prior to the occupation of an agreed number of units. Planning obligations may also be required for maintenance payments, to meet the initial running costs of services and facilities and to compensate for loss or damage caused by development. The Council will work with developers and service providers to secure the necessary improvements to the following types of infrastructure and determine the appropriate range and level of provision/contributions:

Physical infrastructure, which could include –

• Transport relating to highways/roads, rail, waterways, bus/other vehicular public transport, cycle, bridleway and pedestrian access and the securing of Travel Plans; • Waste recycling and management facilities; • Water facilities; • Drainage and flood defence/prevention measures; • Other utilities such as gas, electricity and telecommunications services.

Social/Community infrastructure, which could include –

• Health Care facilities; • Education including local labour, training initiatives and childcare; • Community facilities (for example libraries, community centres/village halls, cultural, leisure and religious facilities).

Green infrastructure, which could include –

• Recreation provision (including open space, allotments, play and sport facilities); • Biodiversity; • Enhancement of the public realm, including public art, civic space and the historic environment.’

Community Policies

5.7 Policy CS3.1 discusses health and wellbeing stating that any development should seek to:

• ‘Maintain, and where necessary enhance, sports and community facilities.

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• Provide further infrastructure (including health and education) in accordance with identified need, responding to significant changes in local demographics’

5.8 Policy CS7.3: Education and Skills refers to the modernisation and enhancement of education provision in the area, through:

• ‘Encouraging investment in education and training at existing facilities; • Supporting the development of further and higher education in the district; • Working with partners to foster opportunities for skills development and encourage life-long learning; • Supporting links between local businesses and high and further education establishments; • Supporting the Local Education Authority’s school re-organisation programme; • Identifying sites for new schools – to satisfy new needs – which are easily accessible and are well related to their catchments; • Re-using redundant school sites to support regeneration priorities and the creation of sustainable communities; • Ensuring that, where appropriate, development proposals make a contribution to education and training needs.’

Environmental Policies

5.9 Policy CS8.4: Biodiversity and Geodiversity states that all development proposals should:

• ‘Protect, enhance and restore the biodiversity and geodiversity value of land and buildings; • Minimise fragmentation and maximise opportunities for restoration, enhancement and connection of natural habitats (including links to habitats outside South Lakeland); and • Incorporate beneficial biodiversity and geodiversity conservation features, including features that will help wildlife to adapt to climate change where appropriate.’

Design Policies

5.10 Policy CS8.10: Design states that the siting, design, scale and materials of a development should be in character with the landscape or townscape within which it sits.

Land Allocations DPD 2013

5.11 The land immediately surrounding the school is currently allocated as amenity open space (no public access) and outdoor sports facilities. See inset map below.

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5.12 Policy LA1.0 reflects Government guidance and carries with it a presumption in favour of sustainable development and a positive approach towards development that accords with development plan policies. Policy LA1.1 identified development boundaries for each of the main towns; the application site sits within the development limits for Ulverston.

5.13 Policies LA1.10 and LA1.11 are relevant to the open space allocation of the site and read as follows::::

LA1.10

“The public open spaces and amenity spaces identified on the policies map will be safeguarded from development and, where possible, managed to enhance their visual, cultural, historic, environmental, informal recreation and biodiversity significance both in themselves and as part of green infrastructure networks.

Development affecting public open space or amenity spaces will not be permitted unless their green infrastructure significance is safeguarded or enhanced ”

LA1.11

“The outdoor formal sports facilities identified on the policies map will be safeguarded from development unless a suitable replacement facilitiy is provided in an accessible location within the same area of need or demand and where sites are also identified as greenspace or as a green gap, the requirements of policy LA1.10 or LA1.9 (as applicable) are met.”

5.14 Chapter 5 of the DPD deals specifically with Ulverston, with key objectives being to strengthen the economic base, develop new housing and regenerate the town. In terms of housing, there is a need

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identified for 1068 new dwellings up to 2023. A significant majority (747) of these dwellings are proposed in the Croftlands area south of Ulverston, in the vicinity of the application site.

Croftlands Junior School, Oakwood Drive, Ulverston 21

6.0 Planning Assessment

6.1 Statement Section 38(6) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, Section 70(2) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and paragraph 11 of the NPPF require that applications for planning permission must be determined in accordance with the Development Plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise. Paragraph 14 of the NPPF requires a presumption in favour of sustainable development to apply, which means that for decision taking development proposals that accord with the Development Plan should be approved without delay, or where the plan is absent, silent or relevant policies are out of date, granting permission unless any adverse impacts would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits or where there are specific policies in the NPPF which indicate development should be restricted.

6.2 In the context of paragraph 14 of the NPPF, the proposed development is now assessed as follows:

• The principle of development • The impact of the design of the development in relation to its location • The impact on highways, transport and access; • Other use specific considerations covering, heritage and conservation; ground conditions; flood risk and drainage; and ecology

Principle of Development

6.3 In strategic terms, the principle of the development of a new school facility on this site is supported by policies at national and local level, as summarised in previous sections. Specifically, [Our Emphasis]:

• The Ministerial Policy Statement of 2011 which states that there should be a presumption in favour of the development of state funded schools; • The NPPF, Section 8, which urges LPA’s to give ‘great weight’ to the need to create, expand or alter schools • Core Strategy Policy CS3.1 which looks to maintain and enhance sports and community facilities; • Core Strategy Policy CS7.3 which looks to modernise and enhance education provision throughout the area;

6.4 The site is also located in a highly sustainable location, within the Development Limits of Ulverston, close to homes and other community facilities, including the adjacent Infant School from which most of the pupil entry are drawn, with resultant positive benefits for parents of children of different ages. In this accord the re-provision of an existing Junior School on the same site fully accords with the presumption in favour of sustainable development contained within the NPPF and the Core Strategy, meaning that permission should be granted without delay unless the development plan is not accorded with or there are adverse impacts which outweigh the benefits of the scheme, or policies of the NPPF restrict development.

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6.5 In this regard the fact that the application site is partly allocated as Amenity Open Space and Outdoor Sports Facilities, means that any development has to be assessed against the key guiding policies in this regard, which are as follows:

• Policy LA1.10 of the DPD • Policy LA1.11 of the DPD • Paragraph 74 of the NPPF

6.6 Before assessing the proposed development against these policies, it is relevant to briefly summarise the existing provision on site. As set out at paragraph 5.11 the open space and playing field allocation relates to the northern portion of the site and includes all of the playing fields, as well as the Infant School hard play area (outside of this application site boundary) and the existing Junior School hard play area, on which the proposed new school building will be built. At the very northern apex of the site there is also a woodland area, used by the school occasionally for outdoor learning. Submitted Plan 2017-087_9107 shows the BB103 areas on site before and after development. The key areas of the site are summarised in the table below: unity In

Existing (sq.m.) Proposed (Sq.m.) Difference

Soft Outdoor PE Area 10,024 9,645 -379 Soft Informal and 2,618 2,710 +92 Social Areas Hard Outdoor PE Area 1,650 1,650 0 Hard Informal and 897 623 -274 Social Areas Habitat Areas 180 200 +20 ‘Float’ 304 304 0 Building Footprint 1,313 1,377 +64 Roads and Parking 1,167 1,644 +477 Site Area 18,153 18,153 0

6.7 Dealing first with Policy LA1.10, this requires amenity space (in this case with no public access) to be safeguarded from development and, where possible, managed to enhance their significance. As such, although not actually a requirement of the policy, it is noteworthy that soft informal and social areas and habitat areas will both be increased under the terms of this proposal. Significantly, the woodland area is unaffected by the development. Except for a small loss of soft outdoor PE area, which is addressed below, the majority of the allocated land is safeguarded from

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development and additional areas of habitat and soft open outdoor space are provided within the application site boundary. There will be no impact on the visual, environmental or biodiversity significance of the site. The submitted ecological appraisal shows that part of the site allocated as amenity space to be of low ecological value. On this basis, we conclude that Policy LA1.10 is complied with.

6.8 Policy LA1.11 partly reflects national guidance on development on playing fields. It requires the safeguarding of land used as playing fields unless a suitable replacement facility is provided in an accessible location within the same area of need or demand. As set out below, the loss of soft outdoor space in this case is marginal and leaves a sufficient amount of usable playing field space. On this basis we conclude that the application does accord with the objective of safeguarding land used as playing fields and does comply with Policy LA1.11.

6.9 Turning to National Guidance, paragraph 74 of the NPPF carries within it 3 specific circumstances in which playing field land can be built on, as follows:

• The land is shown to be surplus to requirements • The loss would be replaced by equivalent or better provision • The development is for alternative sports and recreational provision.

6.10 Sport England are a statutory consultee on this development, insofar as it affects land designated as playing fields and provided pre-application advice on a number of options provided to them by the ESFA (see next Section). The comments received on the three options were as follows:

“Options B and C encroach onto the functional playing field and would affect an existing pitch, so these two options are not preferred by Sport England as replacement within the site would be necessary. These two options also create an irregular shaped playing field which reduces the flexibility of the playing field even further. Option A in effect squares off the playing field creating a regular shape that can be used flexibly by the school in the future. For example, football pitches are marked out at present but a change in PE curriculum or Head Teacher may result in a corresponding need to mark different pitch types and sizes.”

6.11 The submitted layout reflects this advice. As can be seen from the BB103 comparison table and submitted plan 9107, there is a net loss of 379 sq.m. of soft outdoor PE. This is a result of the requirement to re-grade the land to the immediate north of the new school building using a ‘batter’, in order to deal with the levels difference. Access is also needed to the east of the school building for tractor mower access to the playing fields and the wooded area in the north of the site which is used as an outdoor learning space and requires maintenance. In our view, not all of the land in the area of the proposed batter currently constitutes functional playing filed due to existing gradients. In addition, it is intended that the resulting batter area be designed in order that it can be specifically used as an outdoor learning space; possibly with ‘amphitheatre’ type seating; as a result the soft informal areas on the site show a marginal increase.

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6.12 Sport England have been consulted on the layout as now submitted and provided a response via Email dated 6 th July 2017. The response states : “The proposal shows the new school building built predominantly on the existing hard court play area with only minimal encroachment onto the playing field. The hard court play area is to be provided to on the site of the existing school buildings. The maintenance route to the playing fields is located to the east of the site and again has minimal impact on the playing field. “

6.13 The Email response goes on to conclude that “The final proposals, in principle, and subject to further detail of the hard court play area, meets the following exception to Policy: E4…….”

6.14 The resultant soft outdoor PE area still significantly exceeds BB103 requirements for a school of this size (4,800 sq.m.) and would retain more than sufficient functional playing field in order to allow for future flexibility in the laying out of pitches. On this basis we conclude that the proposed development meets the requirements of Sport England exception Policy E4 and, therefore, does not conflict with paragraph 74 of the NPPF.

6.15 In wider planning terms, paragraph 74 should also be read in the context of paragraph 14 of the NPPF which states that planning permission should only be refused where the adverse impacts significantly outweigh the benefits of a scheme. In this case, the clear benefits of replacing an existing poor quality junior school on its existing site, in a sustainable location, clearly outweigh the loss of 379 sq.m of land designated as playing field.

6.16 Continuity of playing field use will be retained throughout the construction period as sufficient playing field space will remain for curricular activities, as demonstrated on the submitted plans 9109 A and 9109 B. Sport England’s comment on the temporary loss of a playing field is as follows (in the Email dated 6 th July): “Sport England do not object to the temporary loss of playing field as long as either there is sufficient space retained to allow pitch sports/physical activity to continue or alternative temporary arrangements are put in place. In this case it is clear sufficient space is retained to enable the school to continue activities on the playing field. In addition Sport England will require a condition to be placed on any subsequent planning approval to ensure the access road and construction compound is removed and the playing field reinstated within a specified time. “

6.17 There is no formal community use of the outdoor playing fields on the site; although community use of the Hall for Zumba classes, Brownies and other community groups. There will be a temporary loss of the existing hard play area whilst the new school is being constructed. The Head teacher has confirmed that curricular PE activities can continue to be accommodated on the adjacent Infant School Hard Play area during this period. Again, there is no community use of this area.

6.18 In summary, we consider the principle of the development to be acceptable. This report will now turn to assess other policy requirements and material considerations.

Design of the Development in Relation to its Location

6.19 The NPPF attaches great importance to good design. More specifically Core Strategy Policy CS8.10 states that the siting, design, scale and materials of a development should be in character with the

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landscape or townscape within which it sits. It also supports designs which promote or enhance local distinctiveness. Full details of the proposed development’s design and ethos and scheme development are contained within the accompanying Design & Access Statement, but a summary of the development against the key provisions of CS8.10 is set out below.

6.20 In terms of the site’s context, it sits within a primarily residential area which is an urban extension of Ulverston. Information contained within the submitted Ground Investigation Report includes a historical review, which shows that the school building appeared between 1968-69 and that large areas of housing were developed in the Croftlands area by 1973. Residential dwellings in the vicinity of the site are uniform in style, both single and two-storey and are predominantly rendered. The existing school building is flat-roofed and rendered, whilst the adjacent Infant School continues this theme albeit on a single-storey basis. To the north of the site, beyond the playing fields, residential properties become larger, and more individual in style.

6.21 The proposed siting of the school building is dictated by a number of factors, as follows:

• Ground levels • Need to retain the existing access • Requirements of the adjacent Infant School • Minimising impact on functional playing field • Minimising impact on adjacent Infant School • Phasing to allow pupils to remain on-site.

6.22 This has resulted in the positioning of the proposed school building on the area currently occupied by hard play, with the subsequent re-location of the hard play to the frontage of the site. This will provide more of a visually pleasing setting for the building than currently exists and clarifies its function as a school building. Existing areas of soft landscaping and mature trees on the site’s frontage are all retained.

6.23 The proposed building is marginally closer to existing single-storey residential properties to the east of the site on Mount Barnard View than the existing building. However, due to the use of extensive cut across the site at below existing ground and playground level, any impact of the building is lessened, as it is broadly the same height as the adjacent houses at eaves level. Unlike the existing building, the proposed school is single-storey. The distance between the school building and the closest property on Mount Barnard View is approximately 10-11m. as such, it is not considered that there will be any significant adverse impact on residential amenity.

6.24 As set out in Section 5 of the accompanying Design & Access Statement, the design of the building has been influenced by a number of key themes, including the feel of the new school reflecting the sense of community and the local environment, a focus on the entrance and reception providing visual lines into the external and internal workings of the school and the views beyond, and a strong landscaped setting for the school.

6.25 The massing of the school, which is now proposed to be single storey, is more appropriate and domestic in scale to its residential surroundings. Double height elements are contained in the

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shape of the hall and kitchen, away from residential properties, and the massing is broken down with the introduction of special features, such as the feature timber cladding to the hall and entrance.

6.26 The materials chosen are considerate to their location in Ulverston and the broader Lakeland fells. It is proposed that the new school comprise of brickwork at lower level to minimise impact from ball games etc. whilst render will be used at higher level to reflect the surrounding vernacular and, as set out above, timber will be used to highlight the entrance feature.

6.27 As set out in the Design & Access Statement, the proposed school building will incorporate energy efficient design, including photovoltaic panels, an energy efficient building solution including an insulated façade, and natural ventilation and heat recovery. A particular feature of the school building, as set out in the accompanying D&A is that it is an off-site modular construction design, leading to minimal disruption on site, a shortened construction period, and less movement of materials, with resultant sustainability benefits.

6.28 As such, we are able to conclude that the design of the proposed school building is entirely in accordance with national guidance on design and also the specific requirements of Policy CS8.10.

Impact on Highways, Access and Transport

6.29 The application is accompanied by a Transport Statement and a School Travel Plan, the latter document having been produced by the school. National planning guidance advises that planning permission should only be refused where the residual cumulative impacts of development are severe.

6.30 In this case the capacity of the school is proposed to remain the same and car parking provision remains static. The TS highlights that the site is extremely accessible and that the majority (Two- thirds) of pupils and staff walk to school. It also shows that the general safety record on the local highway network is very good and that, although Oakwood Drive experiences minor levels of traffic congestion around the start and finish of the school day, this is short-lived. Amongst other measures the Travel Plan outlines that the school already operates a ‘Park and Stride’ policy from the nearby Central Drive shops.

6.31 In this context we conclude that there is a presumption in favour of development as there is likely to be little if no impact on the local highway network as a result of this development.

Other Considerations

6.32 The application is accompanied by a full suite of documents which assess the suitability of the proposed development against a number of key factors. In summary, these documents find that there are no adverse impacts which would outweigh the significant benefits accruing from the redevelopment of Croftlands Junior School. The key findings are summarised below:

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• Ground Conditions – A Phase II Ground Investigation of the site has been undertaken, comprising of boreholes and laboratory testing. No exceedances against human health criteria were found and no gas protection measures are required. Glacial deposits mean that light structural loads such as a one-storey building can be accommodated using pad or strip foundations. • Flood Risk and Drainage – the site is entirely located within Flood Zone 1 and is at low risk of flooding. Sustainable drainage features are to be incorporated within the site drainage where practical and the discharge of surface water from the site is to be limited. • Trees – the submitted Tree Survey shows a total of 27 items on site, comprising 20 individual trees, 4 groups and 3 hedges. 7 of these are of High Value (Category A) and 9 are Moderate Value (B). The Arboricultural Impact Assessment shows the loss of a group of Category C specimens and a potential low impact on one High Value group. Mitigation measures in the shape of a Tree Protection Plan are also submitted. • Ecology – the submitted Preliminary Ecological Appraisal concludes that the site is of low ecological value. On the basis that the existing buildings could have some potential for roosting bats, a Bat Inspection Survey was undertaken in June 2017. No evidence of bat activity was found; the Report concludes that this may well be due in part to resident and aggressive gulls, which predate on bats. • Acoustic assessment – the primary purpose of this document is to determine the existing noise environment and the implications for the ventilation strategy and internal ambient noise levels. The existing noise climate is dominated by the road traffic noise on Mountbarrow Road and Oakwood Drive. The Report recommends that new fixed plant rating level should be set at 5dB below the typical background sound level at the nearest noise sensitive receptors, i.e. adjacent residential dwellings. It is anticipated that this matter can be dealt with by way of planning condition, although it is noted that the fixed plant for ventilation/extraction will almost certainly be on the western elevation of the building, adjacent to the kitchen and away from residential properties.

6.33 In summary, it has been demonstrated that there are no adverse impacts arising from the development, which would outweigh the clear benefits arising from this scheme. It has also been demonstrated that the proposed development complies with relevant development plan policies and national guidance. On this basis, in line with the NPPF, there is a presumption in favour of granting permission without delay.

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7.0 Statement of Community Involvement

7.1 The Cumbria County Council Statement of Community Involvement was adopted in January 2006. Within the document it is indicated that the Council strongly encourages applicants to involve the Local Planning Authority and the community in the submission of a planning application.

7.2 Therefore, it was decided that in the interests of good practise, discussions would be held with the LPA and statutory consultees, along with a consultation event, for councillors and local residents.

7.3 Consultation with Cumbria County Council and Statutory Consultees

7.4 With regards to pre-application consultation, enquires were initially made by the Education Skills & Funding Agency in 2016 and formal feedback was received from a number of statutory consultees, which influenced the design.

7.5 Following the appointment of Keepmoat as the successful contractor, a bespoke scheme was presented to the LPA in a pre-application meeting on 10 th May 2017. At this meeting a list of documents necessary to accompany the planning application was agreed, as well as general feedback on the design which was considered to be broadly acceptable.

Community Consultation

Leaflet Drop

7.6 Along with local Members, local residents and any business within the local area were sent a consultation leaflet providing a brief summary of the proposals and inviting residents to attend a public consultation event.

7.7 Leaflets were distributed to 92 local residents in the immediately surrounding are of the school, along with leaflets being sent to relevant local councillors and the parent community of both the Infant and Junior Schools.

7.8 A map of the local area where the leaflet was distributed can be found at Appendix 1, with a copy of the leaflet at Appendix 2.

Public Notice

7.9 A public notice was issued a week prior to the event and appeared in the North-West Evening Mail and the Westmorland Gazette on Thursday 29 th June. This notice informed the wider community of the public consultation event.

7.10 A copy of this notice can be found at Appendix 3.

Consultation Event

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7.11 The public consultation was held on Friday 7 th July between 3.00pm and 7.00pm within Croftlands Infant School’s existing school hall.

7.12 The consultation event provided a more formal opportunity for local residents, Members and the wider community to learn about the proposed development, express their views and make comment. Several members of the development team were present at the consultation event and provided a range of knowledge regarding the scheme, allowing attendees to ask a variety of questions to the relevant experts.

7.13 Exhibition boards were produced to provide an informative visual aide for attendees to further learn about the scheme and its purpose. The boards provided details of the scheme including indicative layouts and demolition as well as information on access, transport, the playing pitches and more.

7.14 A feedback form was provided to all who attended the consultation event in order to capture the views of those attending. Attendees were able to complete the feedback form at the event or alternatively complete it in their own time and return it via post to the development team.

Feedback

7.15 Generally, the response towards the scheme has been largely positive, with 22 out of the 23 forms being in favour. Participants of the feedback form demonstrated support for how much green space is being retained and how needed a new building is, due to the existing one being rather outdated.

7.16 In terms of written feedback received, all 23 comment forms were completed at the event. Of these, 20 responses supported the scheme (87%), 1 was undecided about the proposals (4.3%) and 2, although still in favour, raised a relatively large number of concerns (8.7%).

7.17 The comments received can be broadly grouped into 5 main areas of concern, and 6 positive aspects:

Concerns/Suggestions Positive Comments

‘Please incorporate netting on the roof to stop ‘The build will follow CDM Regulations so seagulls nesting. They are a health and safety should have minimum effect on neighbouring issue to children and parents who come and go houses.’ into the school.’

‘Unfortunately, problems with parking outside ‘Keeping the green area is also good – it would the school at drop off times will remain.’ be a shame to lose any play area.’

‘Would love to see more renewable energy ‘As much of the building construction will be sources, possibly rain water harvesting or a completed offsite it will lessen the sedum roof.’ noise/disruption in school.’

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Concerns/Suggestions Positive Comments

‘How long is the school built to last?’ ‘It will be a good asset for our area – it will be wonderful for the pupils to progress with their education here.’

‘Will there be enough air in the classrooms – ‘The school building has needed upgrading for looks a bit of a basic design. Low roof often some time now and it is excellent that ESFA means a lot of heat.’ have decided to provide Croftlands Juniors with a new, modern building.’

‘We live nearby and are impressed by the proposals. Particularly pleased that it is one storey.’

7.18 Many of these issues were raised on the day and addressed by the team, but in summary:

ConcerConcernsns of seagulls nesting on the roof

The problem of seagulls is something that the design team have been aware of from the start of the design process. At the present time, the height of the parapet and the unstable nature of the existing school roof means that removal/treatments of nests is impossible. The design of the new building specifically incorporates a much lower parapet. This affords much less shelter to the gulls and will hopefully stop them nesting. In addition, access to the roof will now be possible. Although gulls cannot be prevented from congregating on the roof, they are only aggressive when nesting.

Parking outside school during drop off/pick up times

There is no opportunity to provide additional parking within the school site, without a severe impact on protected playing fields, which would not be acceptable in policy terms. In any event, as set out in the Transport Statement, Traffic Restriction orders are in place outside the school and whilst violations may happen, this is only for a brief period. In addition, and as set out in the submitted Travel Plan, travel to school on foot by both pupils and staff is extremely high.

Implementing more renewable energy sources

A full sustainability Statement is included within the Design & Access Statement which sets out the numerous design features of the school which will be incorporated and which make it a highly sustainable and effective building

Ensuring enough cool air in classrooms

Concerns about the flat roof on the school were expressed at the consultation event and appear to arise from problems within another recent build in the District. The key to ensuring that the

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thermal efficiency of any building is regulated, is dependent upon the ventilation system. Again, this is set out in detail in the Design & Access Statement.

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8.0 Summary and Conclusions

8.1 The proposed development accords entirely with the presumption in favour of sustainable development which runs through the NPPF and is reflected in the policies of the South Lakeland’s Core Strategy and Land Allocations DPD.

8.2 The provision of a replacement Junior School on this existing site reflects the Government’s objective of the creation, development and enhancement of state funded schools to the benefit of the existing pupil and resident community. Although the school is currently under-capacity, the new building will help to accommodate demand arising from large amounts of housing planned for the south Ulverston area.

8.3 Section 6 of this Statement has shown the following:

• There is no impact on the visual, environmental or functional capacity of that part of the site allocated as amenity open space in the Development Plan; indeed there are marginal gains in terms of soft outdoor play areas and habitat space. • There is a minimal impact on land identified as outdoor sports facilities in the Development Plan; sufficient flexibility in terms of the future laying out of pitches will remain. • The siting of the proposed building is dictated by a variety of site constraints but does not cause any adverse impact on residential amenity. Although of a similar floorspace to the existing building, the new building is single storey and has less impact on its surroundings. At the same time re-orientation northwards allows for the function of the site to be clearly expressed through the hard play area being on the site frontage. In terms of materials these reflect the wider Ulverston area and comprise brick at lower levels for durability but then render on the majority of the building, reflecting the local vernacular • There are no severe residual impacts from the development in terms of highways, access or traffic. No increase in school capacity is proposed as part of the development and it has been established that the vast majority of pupils and staff walk to school. • The proposed development has been found to be acceptable in terms of alll other site specific considerations namely; ground conditions, flood risk, drainage, impact on trees and ecology.

1.3 There is no policy or other material consideration which would suggest that the proposed development would cause any harm, and therefore no reason why planning permission should not be granted. The proposed development brings significant social, economic and environmental benefits and very much falls within the definition of sustainable development, on which the NPPF encourages planning authorities to take a positive approach. There are no adverse impacts that would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits of the proposals and there are no specific policies which indicate that development should be restricted. The proposals comply fully with the requirements of the National Planning Policy Framework, the relevant policies of the Kirklees UDP and all other material planning considerations. Therefore in line with paragraph 14 of the NPPF, planning permission should be granted without delay.

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Croftlands Junior School, Oakwood Drive, Ulverston 34

DPP Planning Second Floor 1 City Square Leeds LS1 2ES t 0113 350 9865 info@dppukltd www.dppukltd.com

L001 27th June 2017

Dear Resident PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF A REPLACEMENT JUNIOR SCHOOL ON EXISTING SITE OF CROFTLANDS JUNIOR SCHOOL, OAKWOOD DRIVE, ULVERSTON, LA12 9JU

We are writing to inform you of a public consultation event in respect of the above development. We will shortly be submitting a planning application to Cumbria County Council for this scheme and are providing you with the opportunity to view and comment on the scheme in advance of this submission. We are submitting this application on behalf of the contractors who will be building the scheme; the Elliott Group Ltd.

The consultation event will take place within the existing School Hall on Friday 7th July between 3.00pm and 7.00pm. Plans of the proposed scheme will be on display and members of the Elliott Group, Development team and school representatives will be on hand to answer any queries. Feedback forms will be available on the day for you make comments.

Funding for a replacement junior school on this site is being provided by the Central Government Education Skills & Funding Agency (ESFA) due to the fact that the existing buildings on site are in very poor condition and refurbishment is not an option. Once completed, the new school will be handed over to the Local Education Authority and will be run in the same basis as existing. Pupil capacity at the school will remain as existing; no increase in pupil numbers is proposed. The adjacent Infant school does not form part of these plans.

Plans will be on display at the event but in summary the proposal is for a replacement junior school, housed in a single storey block, within the site, immediately to the north of the existing school. Pedestrian and vehicular access into the site will be as existing. Following completion of the new build, the existing school will be demolished and the existing hard play area re-instated. Subject to planning permission being received, it is intended that the new school will be available for occupation towards the end of 2018. The school will remain fully open during the construction period.

Once the planning application has been submitted, full details will also be available on the Council website.

Yours faithfully,

Michelle C Davies ([email protected]) Director DPP One Ltd DPP One Limited Company number 08129507 Cardiff Leeds London Manchester Newcastle upon Tyne VAT number 138284595

PUBLIC CONSULTATION The Elliott Group would like to invite residents to a public exhibition to view proposals for the development of a new build Junior School at the site of Croftlands Infant School and Croftlands Junior School, Ulverston. This development will involve the demolition of the existing Junior School building on the site, a standalone building which shares a site with Croftlands Infant School. The consultation event will take place within the existing School Hall on Friday 7th July between 3.00pm and 7.00pm. Plans of the proposed scheme will be on display and members of the Elliott Group, development team and school representatives will be on hand to answer any queries. Feedback forms will be available on the day for you to make comments.