Prompt planning process speeds up school build process

Planning Service has turned around plans for two schools in the Castlereagh area in just four and a half months due to the Pre Applications Discussions (PADs) process.

The PADs process meant that Planning Service staff ensured that dialogue with applicants/agents and consultees began before the applications were submitted. This continued throughout the planning process to resolve any issues and avoid unnecessary delays.

Tor Bank Special School currently has 124 pupils with severe learning difficulties and the existing site is no longer adequate in terms of classroom or playground size. This site is on a steep slope which presents additional problems for children with mobility problems. As the current site cannot be expanded, the planning application was for a larger school at a corner site at the junction of Dunlady Road and the Upper Newtownards Road.

Lagan College requires an extension because currently over 50% of the school's classes are carried out in temporary mobile classrooms and the canteen can only cater for less than half of the pupils. Not only will the extension address this but it will also provide a study area for sixth formers and specialist facilities for physical education, ICT, Home Economics, Art, Science and Music.

Commenting on the approvals Environment Minister Edwin Poots said: "I welcome the fact that Planning Service has managed to bring these two clearly critical planning applications to decision so quickly by working effectively with all those involved.

"In respect of the Lagan College application, Planning Service officials cooperated with the agent and consultees to balance a range of environmental considerations with the goal of delivering a workable planning proposal. This will allow Lagan College to continue to operate during the programme of works.

"This is further proof that Planning Service can and does work collaboratively with agents and applicants to make sure that crucial applications get through the system as swiftly as possible. This is good news for applicants and for the construction industry."

Holywood based planning consultants Strategic Planning, who acted as advisors for the applicants, have also praised the cooperation and professionalism displayed by Belfast Divisional Planning staff in handling both planning applications. Their Director of Planning Richard Bowman said: "Planning Service staff were extremely professional and focused throughout the entire pre-application and post-submission planning process. The efficient processing of both planning permissions has ensured construction of the new facilities will begin on schedule this year.

"We would also like to place on record our thanks for the support and encouragement given to our project team by Castlereagh Borough Council who have been very supportive of the two schools projects from the outset."

Notes to editors

1. Two separate planning applications related to schools in the Castlereagh area were received by Planning Service in February 2010:

Y/2010/0056/F - Erection of a new school for children with learning difficulties and special needs, including associated car parking, open space, outdoor recreational space and landscaping.

Y/2010/0058/F - Extensions and alterations to Lagan College to replace existing temporary accommodation, including associated external playing pitches/courts, landscaping, and amended car/bus parking and circulation arrangements.

2. Pre Application Discussions (PADs) process was introduced to provide a forum whereby planning officials and key consultees can provide general advice and identify key issues at an early stage that need to be considered as part of the application package. The aim is to front load the planning process by encouraging applicants to engage in constructive pre-application discussions designed to result in a good quality planning application being submitted accompanied by all of the necessary information. In doing so the prospects of getting through the statutory process quickly is maximised leading to speedier decisions.

3. All media enquires should be directed to the Department of the Environment Press Office on 028 9054 0003. Out of office hours, please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.