2.2m school boundary fence at St Thomas Primary School, Blackburn

What was proposed

The application proposed replacing the existing eastern boundary fence with a 2.2m green mesh fence and pedestrian and vehicle gates.

“The proposal seeks to replace the existing high boundary treatment along the eastern boundary fronting St Clement Street with a new 2.2m high green mesh fencing with pedestrian and vehicular gates. The rationale behind the proposal is to create a more secure environment for children and staff, and an improved security.”

“Planning permission is sought to replace the existing fencing along the eastern boundary of the site. As noted in the submitted Design & Access statement the existing arrangement to the east consists ‘of grey metal palisade fencing at a height of approximately 2m – within the limitations of Part 2, Class A of The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 as amended.”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The site is a primary school off Newton Street, with entrances on its eastern boundary and residential uses in the wider area.

“The application site relates to St Thomas C of E Primary School, which is sited off Newton Street, within the Blackburn urban area. The application site is of relatively modern construction with a variety of flat and pitched roof slopes. Two pedestrian entrance/exit points and one vehicular access point are sited along the eastern boundary. To the northeast of the school is Lidl supermarket and to the north-west and south- west is a mosque and wedding hall.”

Officer report

Why officers supported it

The replacement fence was considered to improve security and community safety without unacceptable effects on nearby residents, visual amenity or highway users.

“The principle of the development is accepted, in accordance with the presumption in favour of sustainable development detailed in the NPPF and LP, which proposals should proceed without delay, unless impacts which significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits of a proposal are identified; subject to assessment of the following matters: Residential Amenity 3.5.3 Policy DM02 requires development to contribute positively to the character of the area and to secure a…”

“The proposal will also be beneficial in reducing anti-social behaviour and improving community safety, thus according with point v) of Policy DM02. Visual Amenity/Design 3.5.7 Policy CP8 confirms the need for all new development to be of a high standard consistent with principles set out in the National Design Guide, and the National Model Design Code, and relevant local design guidance. Development that is not well designed will be refused.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

Sixteen neighbouring addresses were consulted, no comments were received, and the Tree Officer had no objection.

“Public consultation has taken place, with 16 letters posted to neighbouring addresses on 26 th March 2026. Additionally, a site notice was displayed. No comments have been received.”

“In addition to neighbour consultation, 1 statutory consultee was consulted:”

Officer report

Who spoke

There was no registered speaker.

Committee decision

The recommendation was proposed and seconded, and permission was granted subject to the conditions in the report.

“The officer’s recommendations were proposed by Councillor Jim Casey and seconded by Councillor Paul Marrow and subsequently;”

“That the planning permission be granted subject to the conditions detailed in Section 5 of the report.”

Minutes

Conditions attached

The permission required commencement within three years, compliance with approved plans and green RAL6005 powder coating for the fence and gates.

“The development hereby permitted shall be begun before the expiration of three years from the date of this planning permission. REASON: Required to be imposed pursuant to Section 51 of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004.”

“The fencing and gates hereby approved shall be installed powder coated in 'Green RAL6005' unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Local Planning Authority.”

Officer report