Temporary school plans approved despite council’s ‘strong objection’

A TEMPORARY school will be housed on a public car park after controversial plans were approved today (Tuesday, June 15).
By The Newsroom
Published 23rd Jun 2015, 16:05 BST

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DM1506406a.jpg Former Queen Street car park in Worthing. Work has begun to install temporary classrooms. Photo by Derek Martin SUS-150906-171110008DM1506406a.jpg Former Queen Street car park in Worthing. Work has begun to install temporary classrooms. Photo by Derek Martin SUS-150906-171110008
DM1506406a.jpg Former Queen Street car park in Worthing. Work has begun to install temporary classrooms. Photo by Derek Martin SUS-150906-171110008

West Sussex County Council (WSCC) approved an application to house temporary buildings on the Queen Street car park while the new Bohunt academy is built in Broadwater Road, Worthing.

Worthing Borough Council had strongly objected after branding WSCC’s handling of the school building ’the worst planning process ever’.

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Cabinet member for education and skills Jeremy Hunt said: “I’m delighted that the planning committee has given approval today.

“The new Bohunt academy represents part of an investment of more than £30 million in education in Worthing. In due course this excellent facility will accommodate around 900 pupils in some of the most up to date teaching facilities, that will help to ensure the students achieve their full potential.”

Residents who regularly use the car park launched a petition against its closure.

To reduce disruption for residents, a minimum of 20 car parking spaces have been allocated on the main school site, while Northbrook College has agreed users of the Queen Street Church can share its car park.

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Lead petitioner Catherine Bourner said: “Although disappointed with the outcome today the process isn’t fully concluded yet and we will continue to liaise with Adam Whitehead (Bohunt’s head teacher) to ensure that he can create the promised exceptional facilities, whilst also undertaking to reduce any adverse impact on the local community.”

WSCC’s planning committee voted to approve the plans by a narrow majority of seven to five.

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Related topics:Jeremy HuntWest Sussex County CouncilResidentsWorthing Borough Council