The Planning Committee of Sutton Council met on 07 February 2024 and granted planning permission for two applications. The first application was for the erection of a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school at Land South of Sutton Sports Village, Rosehill Recreation Ground, and the second was for a rear extension to Sherwood Hill Campus.

Land South of Sutton Sports Village, Rosehill Recreation Ground, SM1 3HH

The committee granted planning permission for the erection of a part one, part two storey building to create a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school. The proposal also includes modifications to the existing access from Rose Hill, the provision of hard playing space, a multi-use games area (MUGA), car parking, cycle parking, and landscaping works. This application was referred to the committee due to the Council's interest in the land and the receipt of multiple objections.

The principle of developing a SEND school on this site was deemed acceptable, aligning with the Sutton Local Plan 2018's site allocation S98 and an extant planning permission for a secondary and SEND school. Concerns were raised regarding the design of the entrance from Rose Hill, potential traffic backup, and pedestrian access. Officers assured the committee that the entrance would be widened to allow for two-way traffic, with sufficient sightlines and pavement space, and that detailed design would adhere to Section 278 of the Highways Act. The security of the school's car park, separate from other site users, was also confirmed. Flood risk was discussed, with officers explaining that the built area was located in the lowest risk zone and that Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) were adequate. Evidence presented indicated a current and future need for additional SEND provision in the borough.

The applicant highlighted the high quality of the application, their long-standing commitment to providing education in Sutton, and the community demand for specialist placements for pupils aged 11-19 with Education, Health and Care plans (EHCPs). They confirmed collaboration with the Local Authority and other providers, and that the site would offer specialist subject access, services, and therapies. The applicant also stated that facilities, including sports, would be available to the local community outside of school hours. Future expansion was considered but not included in this application. The applicant's team explained that the site entrance design considered pupil drop-off arrangements, supported by staff, to minimise traffic backup onto the main road. They also addressed concerns about hardwood cladding, noting modern treatments improve fire retardancy and lifespan.

The committee debated the design quality, noting support from the Design and Review Panel, and acknowledged the need for increased SEND provision in the borough, supported by evidence. Ultimately, planning permission was granted, subject to conditions outlined in Appendix B of the report.

Sherwood Hill Campus, Stanley Park Road, Carshalton SM5 3HW

Planning permission was granted for the erection of a three-storey rear extension to the existing school building, the installation of mesh fence panels and a polycarbonate roof to create a covered space at first-floor level, and the replacement of a roof extraction system. This application was brought before the committee as the council was the applicant and one objection had been received.

The proposed development was considered acceptable in principle as it would enhance existing facilities for pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN) without increasing pupil or staff numbers. The design was deemed sympathetic to the existing building and the surrounding area, and it was not expected to adversely affect neighbouring residential amenities in terms of noise, disturbance, daylight, sunlight, outlook, or privacy. Highway and parking implications were considered acceptable, subject to conditions, as there would be no increase in pupil numbers. The proposal was also deemed to have no adverse impact on trees and would meet sustainability objectives, with no fire safety concerns raised.

Officers clarified that restrictions applicable to the School Street in Beddington Gardens would apply to construction traffic, and a detailed construction plan would be prepared given the site would remain operational during construction. The applicant confirmed the improvements would enhance facilities, such as kitchen provisions, and that the school would manage any disruption. Members requested that residents be kept informed about the project.

Planning permission was granted, subject to the conditions outlined in Appendix B of the report.