Scouts are given the go-ahead to build a new HQ
ASCOUT group will be able to have a new headquarters built after planners said they would ‘be prepared’ to allow the development.
The 3rd Macclesfield Upton Priory Scout Group is based at West Bond Street and has been considering redevelopment of the site since 2014.
It has previously been given approval to extend its premises but has not acted on this and the permission has now lapsed.
But Cheshire East Council has approved another planning application, this time to demolish the group’s existing premises and rebuild larger ones at the same site.
As part of the application from the Scout Association a report said: “It is considered that the existing Scout Hut has come to the end of its serviceable life. Redevelopment has been under consideration since 2014.
“It is the intention that this development will provide the 3rd Macclesfield Upton Priory Group with a new build facility designed to meet their needs long term.”
The new larger building would have a floor space of 217m2 instead of the existing 177m2 – an increase of the same size the previously agreed extension would brought.
Of neighbouring residents or organisations only nearby Park Royal School made representations.
Its letter was a ‘general observation’ rather than an objection but did raise concerns over building work causing noise disturbance and interfering with Covid staggered drop-off and pick-up times.
Another issue was that have upon completion the vehicle exit on Whiston Street would be directly in front of the pre-school.
But in giving permission, planning officer Tim Poupard said the main potential impacts would only be during construction and measures could be taken to ensure these were minimised.
His report said: “The building is in poor repair and it is understood that maintenance is an ongoing issue. Therefore, approving this application will provide the 3rd Macclesfield Upton Priory Group with a newbuild facility designed to meet their needs for the long term.”