PROTECT TUNSTALL COMMUNITY

Tunstall Resident

/ #269 My opinion after looking at the facts

2014-02-24 15:03

I support the application to build a two form entry primary school in Tunstall Road for the following reasons:


I have been a Tunstall resident for many years and it has always been known that the land has been owned by KCC and earmarked for educational use. It is good that it is finally being utilised for this purpose.

As a Church School it is essential that it is built close to the Church and I am glad that the proposed site is within walking distance of the Church.

Traffic is always an issue around schools but only for two relatively short periods of the day and for only 53% of the days of the year. The proposal has on-site parking and a well designed drop off area which will be the envy of residents near other schools. As the school gradually reaches full capacity over 7 years by taking two forms at reception class each academic year I believe the school will adapt and arrangements can be made to encourage fewer to arrive by car.

The new site will be nearer the new Eden Village estate making it possible for more pupils to walk. Those pupils who currently walk from Sterling Road, Roseleigh Road, Park Drive, Chegworth Gardens and Cranbrook Drive will all still be within walking distance of the proposed site. The current walk from these areas is dangerous in places and I am glad to see that the planned school has addressed these issues with good footpaths and crossings. A risk assessment of the current site has made implementing a walking bus unsafe as the footpaths are inadequate.

I am glad that the surface water flooding risk has been looked into and measures have been taken to not only cope with current rainfall but 30% extra which we may get in the future due to climate change. With foresight like this I feel that the plans are beyond adequate. The site is not at risk of any other type of flooding. This will improve the current situation where the un-kept pond overflows in high rainfall.

The school building is attractive and the proposed floor plan uses the space very efficiently. The facilities outside have also been very well thought out with the pond and surrounding area being used as a feature where currently they look an eyesore. I am pleased to see that existing trees are kept and more planted.