Scout hut improvements at Scout Hut, Acorn Close, Gosport

“EXTERNAL ALTERATIONS AND ADDITIONS TO INCLUDE FOUR AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMPS, TWO METAL STORAGE BUILDINGS, ONE METAL STORAGE BIN, A FREESTANDING CLIMBING WALL, ENLARGEMENT OF HARDSTANDING AND RELOCATION OF FLOODLIGHTING (As amended 6.10.25, 8.10.25 & 9.10.25) Scout Hut Acorn Close Gosport Hampshire PO13 0DA”

“This application relates to a triangular plot of land located towards the western end of Acorn Close. The site is used by the 6th Gosport Scout Group and comprises a single-storey scout hut building to the south of the site with areas of external amenity space to the north and west.”

“13/00155/FULL - Erection of single-storey building (Scout Hut) (Amendment to application 12/00117/FULL) - Permitted 11.06.2013; 12/00117/FULL - Erection of replacement single-storey building (Scout Hut) - Permitted 24.05.2012; 00/00003/FULL - Retention of existing building for use as Scout Hut - Permitted 31.01.2001; 91/15690/PA - Temporary consent for retention of scout hut - temporary consent granted various dates from 1976 to 1996.”

“The main issues for consideration in this application are whether the proposed alterations and additions are acceptable in visual terms and whether they would result in any significant adverse impacts on the amenity of neighbouring occupiers.”

“The Local Plan, and Policy LP32 in particular, seeks to provide and promote a range of quality community and leisure facilities in easily accessible locations including the provision of youth and children facilities that can enhance the quality of life of local residents. This would include the retention and improvement of existing facilities, as is the case here.”

“Environmental Health No objection: It is noted that one ASHP has been relocated and the lighting pole reduced in height. I am satisfied with the information provided in that it should not cause a material impact to the residential properties nearby. Conditions relating to the hours of use of the floodlight are recommended.”

“- Improved facilities will result in increased activity with associated highways and parking impacts; - Parking conflicts between users of the site and local residents; - Fumes associated with vehicles idling while waiting within the surrounding roads and parking areas; - The climbing wall will allow direct views into Acorn Close and private gardens and retirement flats; - The climbing wall will be at risk of being blown over causing damage to neighbouring properties &…”

“Members were advised that the application was for additions to an existing Scout Hut, that had been in its current location since 1972.”

“Members felt that facilities for young people that offered activities and development should be encouraged, and the volunteers congratulated and supported. It was felt that it was better for children to be spending time at these sort of facilities than on the streets.”

“RESOLVED: That planning application 25/00279/FULL be approved subject to the conditions in the report of the Development Manager…”