Issue - meetings

Proposal Description: Creation of a 3G Artificial Grass Pitch (AGP) with perimeter fencing, hardstanding areas, storage container, floodlights, acoustic barrier, access paths and parking area.

The application was introduced. Members were referred to the update sheet which provided additional information regarding policy considerations and the site selection process which was set out in full on the update sheet but could be summarised as follows:

1.   Policy NE2 of the Winchester Local Plan 2020-2040 was noted as relevant, supporting the development of rural educational establishments that bolster economic prosperity.

2.   The site selection process had rejected alternative areas on the Kings School site:

(i) The Middle Field Area: Too narrow for a 3G pitch and would require tree removal.

(ii) The Right-Hand Field: Its development would significantly reduce sports provision for rugby, cricket, and athletics, and eliminate the area's only 400m grass track. Such loss would conflict with Policy NE3, prompt a Sport England objection, and cause negative ecological impacts.

3.   The school had emphasised safeguarding the right-hand field for long-term sporting benefits. Consequently, the proposed location was deemed the most suitable for maximizing community and athletic advantages.

It was noted that the committee had visited the application site to enable members to observe the site in context and to gain a better appreciation of the proposals.

During public participation, Andrew Griffiths and Reuben Peckham spoke in objection to the application, and James Adams spoke in support of the application and answered members' questions.

The committee proceeded to ask questions and debate the application. During discussion on the item, the committee received advice from the Legal Adviser, regarding matters relating to Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding and associated CIL issues. Clarification was also provided regarding the role of statutory consultees and the appropriate legal weight to be applied to their representations and other material considerations in the determination of the application.

RESOLVED:

That the committee agreed to grant permission for the reasons and subject to the conditions and informatives set out in the report and the update sheet, and subject to an additional condition requiring a formal parking management plan to manage traffic and parking impacts on the local road network.