Parcel locker at Oakenshaw Community Centre, Redditch

“The proposal is for the addition of an external ‘InPost Parcel Locker’ to the West elevation of the Oakenshaw Community Centre, on a wall facing Castleditch Lane. The proposed development would be clearly visible from the street scene.”

“The appearance of the ‘InPost Parcel Locker’ is predominantly white vinyl wrapped metal with minor dark grey and black detailing. The front aspect of the proposed locker denotes the ‘InPost’ logo, the hours of operation of the locker and the phrase ‘SCAN TAP & GO’ in a larger, more prominent black font. The locker is equipped with external metal clad downlights and a metal canopy that incorporates an integrated security camera.”

“The Oakenshaw Community Centre is situated within Headless Cross and Oakenshaw Ward, in the South of Redditch. The immediate surrounding area is residential in nature, with the Community Centre situated within walking distance of a number of residential streets. A dedicated access point and car park area are provided for the community centre off Castleditch Lane.”

“The community centre is single storey in nature and constructed of materials similar in appearance to those seen in the local area, appearing in keeping with the character of the street scene.”

“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 community centre. It is noted that existing signage and a defibrillator are also located in this area. The materials used for the locker mean it will be apparent from Castleditch Lane. However, the location of the locker is set against the building, tucked into a corner, and set back from the highway.”

“That having regard to the development plan and to all other material considerations, planning permission be GRANTED subject to the following conditions:”

“Additionally, the proposal is sited approximately 50 metres away from the rear gardens of the closest residential dwellings, separated by open space, Castleditch Lane, trees and vegetation, and fencing. Given these circumstances, it is considered that the proposal would not be harmful to nearby residential occupiers with regard to noise or privacy.”

“As such, the proposal is considered to comply with both the National Planning Policy Framework 2024 and the Borough of Redditch Local Plan No.4, specifically policy 40.2 (i) which states that the proposed designs should 'be of a high quality design that reflects or complements the local surroundings and materials', and policy 40.2 (viii) which states that the development should 'incorporate any relevant guidance contained within Supplementary Planning Documents, for example…”

“Worcestershire County Council Highways Worcestershire County Council Highways have registered a response of No Objection.”

“Cadent Gas Cadent Gas have registered a response of No objection; however, request than an Informative Note be added to the Decision Notice.”

“Members drew Officers attention to page 41 of the Site Plans and Presentations pack and enquired about the window which was being obscured. Officers replied that it was an operational matter for the site owner and not a matter to be considered by the Committee.”

“Members saw no issue with the land use or position and on being put it the vote it was:”