Leisure centre alterations and solar panels at Blackwater Leisure Centre, Maldon

What was proposed

The application proposed internal alterations, new glazed openings for a fitness suite and photovoltaic panels on three roof slopes.

“Planning permission is sought for internal alterations and new glazed openings to the south elevation serving the proposed fitness suite, together with the installation of photovoltaic panels to the south and western roof slopes of the main building.”

“In addition, the scheme proposes the installation of photovoltaic panels to the southern, eastern and western roof slopes of the “pyramid” roof of the centre. The siting of the panels as indicated is provided for information only since they would otherwise be installed under permitted development rights (see discussion at section 5.1 below).”

Officer report

The site

The site contains the leisure centre and car park within Maldon’s settlement and development boundaries, among other leisure uses.

“The application site is located north-east of Park Drive, within the settlement boundary of Maldon. The site comprises the Blackwater Leisure Centre and associated car park.”

“The site is located within the defined development boundary of Maldon and is an area with a mix of uses. To the south-east of the site is Madison Heights, a recreational centre with bowling facilities, a children’s play centre, a roller skating facility, bar and restaurant. To the immediate north of the site is Park Drive Health Club and the waste depot. Beyond this is Maldon Promenade Park.”

Officer report

Earlier site history

Earlier applications included extensions, temporary facilities, signs, an aerobics studio, a refused car-wash use and an approved community hub.

“Application Ref. Description Decision 98/00396/OUT Construction of multi-purpose sports hall and ancillary facilities to existing leisure centre Approved 00/00538/FUL Proposed single storey extension to existing swimming pool to provide new entrance, sports hall, health and fitness, aerobics studio, consultation rooms and changing facilities Approved 01/00093/FUL Proposed erection of temporary accommodation to provide a Fitness Suite, Male/Female changing facilities and…”

Officer report

Consultation responses

The town council recommended approval, consultees raised no objection or comments, and no third-party representations were received.

“Name of Parish / Town Council Comment Officer Response Maldon Town Council The Town Council recommends approval of this application Noted…”

“No third-party comments have been received in relation to the proposals.”

Officer report

Who spoke

Councillors discussed the application, while officers explained the glazing, planning permission and relevance of the leisure contract.

Committee debate

Members considered transparent glazing, possible alternative glazing and an added condition, while a proposed deferral was not agreed.

“A debate ensued. There was some discussion regarding the proposed glazed openings and it was clarified that they would be made from transparent glass to create a view in and out of the gym space. In response to queries regarding whether two-way or alternative glazing could be requested, Members were advised that this could be conditioned if they were mindful.”

“Councillor A S Fluker spoke regarding the glazing and whether Places Leisure should be given opportunity to review this and come back to the Committee. He proposed that the application be deferred to allow Places Leisure to consider the comments regarding the glazing and come back to the Committee. This proposal was duly seconded. The Chairperson put this to the Committee however the deferral was not agreed.”

Minutes

The votes

The committee rejected the proposed glazing condition and then agreed the officers’ recommendation of approval.

“The Chairperson then referred to the proposal in the name of Councillor Bell, to accept the Officers’ recommendation of approval, and put this to the Committee. Upon a vote being taken this was duly agreed.”

Minutes

The decision

The application was approved subject to three conditions covering commencement, approved plans and construction materials.

“RESOLVED that this application be APPROVED subject to the following conditions:”

“The materials used in the construction of the development hereby approved shall be as set out within the application form / approved plans.”

Minutes