Library entrance alterations at Uppingham Library, Uppingham

What was proposed

The application sought changes to the library frontage, including a blocked entrance, a new entrance, replacement windows and doors, and internal improvements.

“Application: 2025/1363/RG3 ITEM 3 Proposal: Section 73 Application to vary condition 2 (approved plans) of planning application 2025/1206/RG3 - Alterations to the existing front elevation of Uppingham Library comprising, blocking up existing access, creation of new entrance, and replacement of existing windows and doors.”

“EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The application proposes the alterations to the existing front elevation of Uppingham Library comprising, blocking up existing access, creation of new entrance, and replacement of existing windows and doors. Internal works that do not require planning permission are also proposed that that include alterations to the layout of the library, refurbishment of the kitchen and accessible toilets and creation of a Family Hub.”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The library is a detached 1960s single-storey building beside Queen Street, a public car park and a residential property within the conservation area.

“Site & Surroundings 1. The application building is a detached 1960’s single-storey building on the west side of Queen Street. To the rear is an existing public car park with one way entrance adjacent the northern end elevation of the building. To the south is No 14 Queen Street a residential property. The library is located within Uppingham Conservation Area. Proposal 2.”

Officer report

Earlier planning history

Earlier permissions covered a rear steel fence and front-elevation changes, while a similar proposal was approved in November 2024.

“Although the submitted drawings show alterations to the existing layout of the library planning permission is only required for the changes to the external appearance of the library. Relevant Planning History 5. There have been two applications granted planning permission in the recent past.”

“Planning permission was granted for a similar proposal to that currently proposed under application reference 2024/1206/RG3 in November 2024.This current…”

Officer report

Consultation responses

Highways, the Conservation Officer and Uppingham Town Council raised no objection, while the Town Council asked how long it would house the library.

“RCC Highways: No Objection. 2 No. informatives are recommended. 24. Conservation Officer: No Objection 25. Uppingham Town Council: The Council has no objection. The Council is surprised and would like to ask for clarification on how long the Town Council will be housing the library. Neighbour Representations Below is a summary of the comments. Full details can be viewed on the Council’s website.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The Development Manager introduced the application and gave an executive summary recommending approval subject to the report’s conditions.

The committee’s discussion

The committee was told that the proposal would block the existing entrance, create a central entrance and replace windows and doors, with no objections from conservation or highways.

“The application involved blocking up the existing entrance, creating a new centrally located entrance, and replacing some windows and doors. The Conservation Officer and Highways raised no objections.”

Minutes

The vote

A motion to approve the application subject to the report’s conditions received ten votes in favour and was unanimously carried.

“It was proposed by Councillor D Wilby and seconded that the application be approved subject to the conditions in the report.”

“Upon being put to the vote, with ten votes in favour, the motion was unanimously carried.”

Minutes