Parcel locker at Abbey Stadium Sports Centre, Redditch

“The proposal, which is retrospective, is for the addition of an external ‘InPost Parcel Locker’ to a side wall near the doors to the main reception of the Abbey Stadium Sports Centre. Historic imagery shows that the lockers have been in situ since at least April 2024. The development comprises one unit, with a projecting canopy element.”

“The ‘InPost Parcel Locker’ acts as a communal locker for the storage of parcels that are waiting to be sent or received by individuals and/or businesses. The locker operates in a self-service fashion and can be accessed by patrons 24/7.”

“The Abbey Stadium Sports Centre is a leisure facility, comprising a swimming pool, running track, playing fields and a gymnasium. It is located near to the northern edge of Redditch, within the Greenlands and Lakeside Ward.”

“The locker is located on a wall adjacent to the main entrance to the main building. To the south is a large car park, which can be accessed by motorists from Bordelsey Lane.”

“The proposal is considered to constitute ‘development’ as per the definitions set out in the Town and Country Planning Act (1990), which states: ‘”development,” means the carrying out of building, engineering, mining or other operations in, on, over or under land, or the making of any material change in the use of any buildings or other land’.”

“Overall, the proposal is considered to be acceptable as the locker is of a modest scale and its function aligns with the wider use of the building as a leisure centre. The materials used for the locker mean it will be apparent from the car parking areas associated with the Abbey Stadium Sports Centre. However, the location of the locker is set against the building, tucked against a wall by the main entrance.”

“Officers detailed that InPost parcel lockers were a self-service parcel drop off and collection point which Members of the public could use. The locker would be accessible 24 hours a day and it was deemed the location and use were acceptable.”

“The locker would be visible from the public highway. The locker would be equipped with external metal clad downlights to facilitate self-lighting and a metal canopy which incorporates an integrated security camera for security purposes. No objections were received from County Highways nor any other consultee.”