The Environment Agency object to OMBC Plans for proposed Saddleworth School.
Saddleworth School
Reporter: Judith Grinter
Recent application plans for construction of a new Saddleworth School (for children 11-16) on the former WH Shaw pallet works, Huddersfield Road in Diggle have been re-advertised after objections have been made by the Environmental Agency.
The Environmental Agency have rejected the revised 40 page FRA (Flood Risk Assessment) submission, stating in their letter to OMBC Planning dated 3rd April 2018 that it “does not comply with requirements set out in the National Planning Policy Framework and associated guidance”, “The excavation of the existing floodplain is not an adequate compensatory flood storage” and “we maintain our objection to the above application”.
The Victorian Society are also objecting to the demolition of the Dobcross Loom Works buildings and the listed Link Bridge, in their letters to OMBC planning dated 30th November 2017 and 8th March 2018, “on the grounds that it would cause substantial harm to the Dobcross Works Office Building that could be avoided by exploring the Uppermill site as an alternative location for the proposed new school. The Victorian Society went on to recommend “that the current application and any others associated with this development are refused and the Uppermill site is explored as the preferred option for the new school development.”
Anna Shelley, conservation adviser for the EA wrote: “As heritage assets are irreplaceable, any harm or loss should require clear and convincing justification. Substantial harm or loss to grade II listed building, park or garden should be exceptional.”
Author: Jude Gidney - Editor
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