Leisure centre extension to include a 25m 6 lane pool, fitness suite, cafe, activity room, parking spaces and landscaping, and the refurbishment of the existing grandstand to include demolition of the existing entrance lobby, internal works and roof works. 

The Executive Director for Economic Growth and Neighbourhood Services submitted a report on the above application.  An update report was tabled at the meeting which provided additional information on natural environment (trees), crime prevention, archaeology, ecology and employment skills and training.  Amendments to the Section 106 Heads of Terms and additional and amended conditions were recommended as a result.  The update report had appended additional views, an amended plan and written statements from the registered public speakers.

Comments and objections were received and considered.

Objectors Chris Darby and Richard Stowell, and Martin Lindus, Chris Wood, Paul Shearman and Ben Stanesby on behalf of the applicant, attended the meeting and addressed the Committee on this application.

Resolved –

(1)      That the Deputy Director of Planning, Transport and Regulatory Services be authorised to grant full planning permission for application 201734/FUL subject to completion of a S106 legal agreement (unilateral undertaking) by 9 April 2021 (unless a later date be agreed by the Deputy Director of Planning, Transport and Regulatory Services) to secure the Heads of Terms set out in the original report, with the amendment set out in the update report;

(2)      That, in the event of the requirements set out not being met, the Deputy Director of Planning, Transport and Regulatory Services be authorised to refuse permission;

(3)      That planning permission be subject to the conditions and informatives recommended in the original report, with the amendments and additional conditions as set out in the update report, and an additional informative to state that the Car Parking Management Plan should prioritise leisure uses and specifically for organised clubs;

(4)      That the Car Parking Management Plan be agreed in consultation with Ward Councillors.