Agenda item

The Committee considered application 3/20/1725/LB for the replacement of four windows at Pamphill First School, Pamphill Wimborne, BH21 4EE with the application being considered as the Council’s Assets and Property section was the applicant.

With the aid of a visual presentation, and taking account the detail in the report, officers provided context of what the main proposals, principles and planning issues of the development were; taking into account the policies against which this application was being assessed.

Plans and photographs provided an illustration of the location, dimensions and appearance of the school and its windows; how these would be replaced and by what means - given that the building was Grade II listed; the materials to be used; environmental, sustainability and built heritage considerations - given the status of the building - and that it was within the Pamphill Conservation Area.

The characteristics and topography of the school site was shown and views into the site and around it, which provided a satisfactory understanding of all that was necessary.

Officers explained there was a need for the replacement windows as those currently there were in a poor state of repair – having become unfit for purpose - and did not meet sustainability standards which might be expected.

In summary, the officer’s assessment considered the acceptability of the proposal which would not result in any harm to the designated Heritage Asset and this formed the basis of the recommendation being made.

The opportunity was then given for members to ask questions of the

presentation and what they had heard, in seeking clarification of aspects so

as to have a better understanding in coming to a decision. Some important points raised were and which they considered still required clarification were:-

·        what the windows would be constructed of; what the quality of the materials to be used were and of what composition and; where these would be located on the building

·        that local craftsman and firms might be engaged, if at all practical and possible within the terms of any contract or tender exercise

Officers addressed the questions raised – and what clarification was needed - providing what they considered to be satisfactory answers – in being confident that each one could be addressed by the provisions of the application -

which the Committee understood to be, and saw, as generally acceptable.

From debate, the Committee considered the proposal to be acceptable - understanding the need for new windows to maintain the fabric of the building and which were in keeping with their surroundings.

Having had the opportunity to discuss the merits of the application and an

understanding of all this entailed; having taken into account the officer’s report

and presentation; and what they had heard at the meeting, in being proposed by Councillor Shane Bartlett and seconded by Councillor Robin Cook, on being put to the vote, the Committee agreed - unanimously - to grant permission, subject to the conditions set out in the officer’s report.

Resolved

That application 3/20/1725/LB be granted permission, subject to the conditions set out in the officer’s report.

Reason for Decision
The proposal would not harm the character, appearance and historic interest of the designated heritage asset that it affected being the Grade II listed building and there were no material considerations which would warrant refusal of this application.