Agenda item - BH2026/00745 - Varndean School, Balfour Road, Brighton - Full Planning

1.    The Planning Team leader introduced the application to the committee.

Answers to Committee Members Questions

2.    Councillor Shanks was informed that the council was the freeholder of the land and the gates will be open during school opening hours, there was no information regarding school holidays. It was noted that the applicant stated that the existing fencing was not sufficient for safeguarding.

3.    Councillor Earthey was informed that the fence height was standard and mesh design was chosen to maintain views.

4.    Councillor Pickett was informed that the under 9.6 of the report consideration was given to the operational requirements of the school and the need to provide a safe and secure environment for pupils and staff. It was noted that existing fences at the school may not have required planning permission. The planning manager confirmed that there was no government guidance they were aware of to dictate the height of school fencing.

Debate

5.    Councillor Pickett considered it was sad to enclose the space; however, they understood it was for safeguarding and therefore the councillor did not feel they could refuse the application. The councillor supported the application.

6.    Councillor Shanks expressed concern that the applicant had submitted no evidence, therefore there appeared to be no safeguarding issues at the school. The councillor was against the application.

7.    Councillor Earthey noted there was a statutory requirement for safeguarding; however, the councillor considered there was no reason to support the application.

8.    Councillor Lyons expressed concerns over what the particular issues may be at the school.

9.    Councillor Sheard considered they understood the issues raised by committee Members and felt it was a shame the fence was needed and considered the design very industrial. The councillor supported the application as there was more awareness of safeguarding now than before and the protection of children was a major issue. Other areas will still be available for residents.

10. Councillor Parrott considered schools were struggling with health & safety issues, as well as absenteeism, and teachers were under more pressure.

11. Councillor Winder felt uncomfortable at agreeing to the fencing; however, they understood there was anti-social behaviour and safeguarding was needed. The councillor considered a more neutral colour would be preferred.

12. The planning manager noted the safeguarding reasons were given on the application form.

13. Councillor Thomson considered there had been dangers in the past and they could not vote against the application. The councillor supported the application.

Vote

14. A vote was held and by 7 to 1 against and 1 abstention the committee agreed to grant planning permission.

15. RESOLVED: That the Committee has taken into consideration and agrees with the reasons for the recommendation set out in the report and resolves to GRANT planning permission subject to the Conditions and Informatives in the report.