Community hall extension at Aigburth Peoples Hall, Aigburth Vale, Liverpool

What was proposed

The application proposed a single-storey side and rear extension, alterations to rear windows, a patio, a gate and landscaping after demolitions.

“Planning permission is sought to erect single storey extension to side and rear following demolition of existing side extension, stair and container to rear, alter basement and ground floor fenestration to rear, erect patio and gate with associated landscaping work to rear garden.”

“The purpose of the proposal is to provide accommodation for functions including weddings and additional space for day-to-day activities at the Hall. The opening times are proposed as 11:00 to 23:00 daily.”

Officer report

The site

The site contains a private sports and social club, its outbuildings, gardens and bowling green in a residential area beside Sefton Park.

“The site is a plot bound by Mossley Hill Drive, Elmswood Road, and Aigburth Vale, adjacent to the Grade I-listed Sefton Park, in a verdant and broadly residential area. The site is occupied by Aigburth People’s Hall, which is a private members sports and social club, and its associated outbuildings and gardens, including a bowling green.”

“The existing hall was constructed c.1900 as a purpose-built “cocoa rooms” facility by proponents of the temperance movement. Though not listed, the existing building would likely be considered a Non-Designated Heritage Asset (NDHA). The site is situated within the Sefton Park Conservation Area.”

Officer report

Earlier site history

An earlier application for a rear marquee, pedestrian access, ramp and hardstanding was approved subject to conditions.

“15F/1652 To erect marquee to the rear of hall (to operate between 1100 and midnight) to accommodate 175 persons, create new pedestrian access to Mossley Hill Drive and install access ramp and associated hardstanding Approved with Conditions.”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended approval because the scheme was acceptable in principle and would not harm heritage, residential amenity, accessibility, highways, ecology or biodiversity.

“The proposal seeks permission for a single-storey side and rear extension, demolition of existing structures, alterations to fenestration, and associated landscaping at the People’s Hall. The site is located within a Primary Residential Area and the Sefton Park Conservation Area. The principle of development is acceptable as it represents an extension to an existing community facility and complies with Policies H7, SP5, and the relevant provisions of the NPPF.”

“Overall, the proposal represents a sustainable form of development in a well-connected location, aligns with local and national policy requirements, and is acceptable in terms of heritage, amenity, ecology, design, accessibility, and transport considerations.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

A councillor supported the improvements but raised concerns about parking, accessible facilities, closing times and cycle storage; no neighbours commented.

“Consultation Responses The application was publicised by individual neighbour notification letters, a press notice and a site notice. Representation has been received as a result of the publicity given to the application. External Councillors Councillor Martyn Paul Madeley commented as follows: “I support the improvement of the site and welcome the changes to remove the patio and also improve accessibility to the site.”

“Cycle storage should be included in this planned extension, at least Sheffield bike racks for members of the public, and secure parking for members of staff to encourage active travel.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The applicant’s agent spoke in support, and the planning case officer summarised the application and recommendation.

The decision

The application was approved subject to the conditions proposed by the Director of Planning and Building Control.

“That the Application be approved subject to the Conditions proposed by the Director of Planning and Building Control.”

Minutes