School could be transformed if it gets council seal of approval
A MAJOR transformation of Dame Allan’s School could get the green light from council chiefs this week.
A number of buildings at the senior and sixth form schools in Fenham, Newcastle, are set to be torn down to make way for a new extension, under plans to get rid of “poor quality” classrooms.
Newcastle City Council’s planning committee is expected to approve the proposals on Friday morning.
Designs for an overhaul of the Fowberry Crescent school would see its existing arts centre, bursary building, girl’s art room and changing rooms demolished.
They would be replaced by a new two-storey extension including new classrooms and science labs, offices, arts centre, and changing rooms.
In a report to councillors, civic centre planning officers said the revamp would “replace the mismatch of different buildings with a single well designed building which will significantly enhance the appearance of the school and the surrounding area”.
Despite some objections from neighbours concerned over the size of the extension and issues with traffic and parking, the council said there would be “no significant harm to the residential amenity of surrounding residents”.
One neighbour in Bourne Avenue warned the council that problems caused by parents dropping off and picking up their children are already “intolerable”, fearing the new development will “increase this chaotic situation”.
In its planning application, the school said that the plans would help provide improved facilities for pupils.