School applies for planning go-ahead years after opening
ASCHOOL has had to submit a planning application to the council - after it opened three years ago without the necessary permission.
The Eden School, on Chelford Road, in Macclesfield, is an independent school for up to eight children with additional needs.
It is run by Family Care Associates and began operating from an outbuilding in February 2017.
The building is a former cattery and in the grounds of Eden House, which is owned by the same organisation and is a residential care home for children with disabilities.
But planning permission was not sought and a retrospective change of use application has had to be submitted to Cheshire East Council.
A statement produced by consultants Berry’s, submitted with the application, says: “It is evident that Eden School provides a high quality educational environment for up to eight pupils.
”However it has come to light that the school does not benefit from planning consent and the application subject of this statement therefore seeks to regularise matters.
” This accommodation includes two classrooms, a staff/quiet room and sanitary provision.
”It is an important community facility that provides significant economic and social benefits.”
The school is in the green belt but because the application is for the change of use of an existing building it is acceptable development, it is argued.
“It has three full-time employees and one part time and annual fees are £34,515.
When visited by Ofsted inspectors last year the school was rated as good.
The watchdog’s report said: “Leaders and staff are guided by the genuine belief that every pupil deserves a chance ‘to be the best they can be’.
”Pupils make strong progress from their starting points. The positive relationships that they have with staff and the good-quality teaching and learning that they enjoy ensure that pupils make rapid progress. “Parents and carers cannot thank staff enough for giving their children ‘hope for the future’.”
The application should be ruled on by April 10. Family Care Association declined to comment on it.