Nursery in library at Hempstead Library, Hempstead, Gillingham

What was proposed

Part of the library would become a nursery for up to 30 children aged three months to four years, with no external changes and outdoor play space.

“The proposal is for a change of use of part of the Library building from Library (Class F1) to Nursery (Class E(f)). The Nursery would cater for up to 30 children aged from 3 months to 4 years.”

“There is an outdoor space for use by the children.”

Officer report

The site

The building would include nursery rooms, toilets and an outdoor area, with on-street parking available on surrounding roads.

“There is no parking proposed as part of the development. There is on-street parking available on Hempstead Road and surrounding roads.”

Officer report

What people said

Ten letters objected over community space, parking, traffic, safety, activity and noise, while four letters supported the nursery’s suitability and local benefits.

“Loss of community facility Displacement of existing activities in the hall Impact on parking Increase in traffic and road safety issues Increase in comings and goings Impact of noise on the rest of the Library…”

“Premises well-suited to a nursery use Income generation for Library Allows a local business to grow…”

Officer report

Who spoke

Councillor Lawrence addressed the committee as ward councillor and raised concerns about community space, the report, building changes and parking.

Members’ debate

Members discussed the need to preserve the community asset, while the service manager said the library would remain available for community use.

“The Committee discussed the planning application noting the points raised by the Ward Councillor and confirmed this was a community asset and there was a need to preserve it.”

“This record is available on our website – www.medway.gov.uk The Service Manager - Development Management explained that the Hempstead Library would continue to be used by the community. The Nursery would have permanent use of the space, where all their equipment could be easily accessible which was not possible now. Another room in the Library would be available for hire for other community groups.”

Minutes

The votes

A motion to defer the application was moved and seconded but was defeated by a majority.

“Some Members asked for a deferral, it was moved, seconded and voted on, however, the majority vote was against a deferral.”

Minutes

The decision

The application was approved with conditions 1 to 4 for the reasons stated in the report.

“Approved with conditions 1 to 4 as set out in the report for the reasons stated in the report.”

Minutes