Appeal launched over Clearwater Drive planning refusal

An appeal has been launched against the refusal by councillors for planning permission to build a primary school on open space at Clearwater Drive in Quedgeley.

Councillors on Gloucester City Council planning committee rejected the application last year after a campaign by local residents and supported by the Liberal Democrats.

The Diocese of Gloucester Academies Trust had applied to build a new school on the field, which is popular with dog walkers.

It would provide a new home for Clearwater Church of England Academy, which is currently using temporary accommodation at Hardwicke Parochial Primary School.

Under the plans there would have been enough space for 420 pupils from reception year upwards.

The Liberal Democrats have long argued the land should be retained as open space and the new school built at Kingsway where new homes are being built.

Local residents were also concerned about traffic problems if the school was to be built at Clearwater Drive.

The Education and Skills Funding Agency has now lodged an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate against the decision of the planning committee.

Local resident Liam Harries, Lib Dem spokesman in Quedgeley Severn Vale, said: "Quedgeley has very limited open space and we are doing all we can to protect it.

"Kingsway has much more room so why not build the school there?

"In the long-term we want to see Clearwater Drive designated as a town green, which means it would be protected from the threat of development.

"Unfortunately, that application cannot be made while planning issues remain outstanding.

"I would urge all local residents to submit their views to the Planning Inspectorate. They have until July 30 to do so."

Further information on the appeal can be found on the Planning Inspectorate website and ref: APP/U1620/W/18/3204339.