Issue - meetings

PERMISSION

Description of application – demolition of the existing sports clubhouse. Erection of repositioned sports pavilion, external equipment store, cycle and bin store, perimeter fencing and associated works, including new access from car park and landscaping.

The Development Management Area Team Leader (East) reported that an artist’s impression image had been received from the applicant. This had been circulated to Members and was also tabled at the meeting. The Chairman noted that the applicant had also circulated a comprehensive planning summary to Members.

Oral representations in support of the application were received at the meeting. The following responses were given to Members’ questions:

·  It was believed that the neighbouring rugby club was a two storey building, consisting of a ground floor and a floor in the eaves of the roof.

·  Staff of Millwall Community Trust, established as a charity in 1985, would deliver additional programmes. They had been delivering these services in Southwark, and most recently in Sevenoaks. The Trust had a number of resources which the club did not. These programmes would be offered at times other than Saturdays and Sundays, when the park was used by Orpington Football Club, to bring different users into the park to experience recreation and sport.

·  The footprint of the new building was smaller than that of the existing pavilion as the proposal was for a two storey build.

·  The applicant had consulted with LBB Planning Officers over four years, spending £40k. They initially sought pre-planning advice which had helped determine the location and proposals. The first application was refused as it was felt to be too large, invasive and overbearing. Following this they worked with the Football Foundation to reduce the size as much as they could.

·  Two consultations had been undertaken, the first during the pandemic lockdown period in March 2020. However it had been well publicised online, and 322 questionnaires had been hand delivered. Over 600 responses were received, mostly online, but 35 were returned questionnaires. Approximately 300 of the responders were connected with Orpington Football Club, but the other 300 were not. Overall, 93% of responses were in favour of new facilities in the park, so that indicated that there was a broad consensus for them to proceed. Following the first application being refused they had appealed to the local MP and Ward Councillors, and it was suggested that an in person consultation be held for local residents. In May 2023, an evening consultation had been held, attended by 35 local residents. They were provided with an opportunity to view the drawings and plans. Some residents had expressed concerns regarding late night parties, alcohol licences and football taking over the park – however assurances were offered in relation to these points and most attendees had left feeling reassured. They wanted to provide an excellent grassroots facility that supported its members and other park users.

·  A preliminary ecological appraisal had been undertaken – the report concluded that no harm would be caused by the proposed plans as they would “make good”  ...  view the full minutes text for item 34