Decision due on major school redevelopment plan

Plans to revamp the school include a new two-storey building

A decision is due on plans for the major redevelopment of a Sutton Coldfield school.

If the proposals are given the green light next week, existing buildings at Four Oaks Junior and Infant School would be demolished and a new two-storey building built.

Planning permission is also being sought for multi-use games areas, car and cycle parking, amenity areas and new landscaping.

A recently-published officer’s report for Birmingham City Council said the construction of the new building, demolition of the existing school, and creation of associated developments would be done in different phases.

“This is required to continue the operation of the school,” it said.

“The two-storey education building would be constructed first before demolition of the other school buildings to maintain normal operation of the school.”

According to the same report, the numbers of pupils and staff would remain unchanged – 420 primary school pupils aged to 11 years, with 47 staff.

It went on to say there were several community groups that used the site including a drama club, a netball club and gymnastics camps during the summer holidays.

“The school intends to expand this offering to the community in a safe and secure way,” the report stated.

“Out of hours access arrangements will be managed so that the school remains safe and secure while allowing ease of use from the wider community.”

Recommending the proposals for approval, the report said the project would provide a high-quality education facility while enhancing the character of the area.

It would provide improved sports pitches, which would also be available for use by the surrounding community, the document added.

“The proposed development would not result in any significant impact upon neighbour amenity, landscape features, highway safety or infrastructure,” it said.

“The proposal would constitute a sustainable development and therefore [it is recommended] that planning permission is granted subject to conditions.”

The plans will be considered by a Birmingham City Council planning committee on Thursday 3 October.