Theatre's plans for new rehearsal studio refused

by Lisa Reeves

Wednesday 19^th June 2013

Wed 19^th Jun 2013

Wilmslow Green Room Theatre has been refused permission to build a first floor extension for use as a rehearsal room.

They submitted a planning application to Cheshire East Council (CEC) to enable them to construct a dedicated rehearsal studio above the foyer to allow the cast to start rehearsals earlier, independently of the previous production.

The current building on Chapel Lane does not have a dedicated rehearsal area, which means rehearsals must take place in the same area as performances - so each production has to wait for performances to finish before commencing rehearsals, which limits the numbers of performances which can be presented each season.

In addition to enabling extra productions to be introduced, it was intended that other organisations could use the space.

Cheshire East Council refused to grant planning permission on the grounds that the proposed extension would be overbearing and reduce the extent of sunlight to a neighbouring property.

Speaking at this week's Town Council meeting, Cllr Christopher Dodson said "We are dismayed that the Green Room's application has been refused by the officer at CEC. It did seem to us a rather curious decision."

No objections were received to this planning application, reference 13/0860M. Two residents wrote to support the plans, as did Wilmslow Town Council.

Tags:: Planning Applications, Wilmslow Green Room

Comments

Here's what readers have had to say so far. Why not add your thoughts below.

Charlie Cook

Wednesday 19^th June 2013 at 6:34 pm

Is this final, or can the theatre appeal? It seems odd for the CEC to stop the theatre potentially bringing more punters into the town, especially as no one objected.

Christopher Dodson

Thursday 20^th June 2013 at 12:25 pm

The theatre can appeal, though there is a cost to that. I understand they are now going to decide what their best option is.
It just seems to me a wicked shame that they have been put in this position.

Raymond Acton

Thursday 20^th June 2013 at 1:33 pm

Could the CEC Councillors for Wilmslow please state their role in this as our representatives?

Drew Donaldson

Saturday 22^nd June 2013 at 6:18 pm

Looks like another "jobsworth" is being employed by the Council. I hope there is an appeal and it is successful. In the meantime, why doesn't the Green Room players approach the Rugby Club and ask if they can use some of their facilities for rehearsals?

Stuart Redgard

Sunday 23^rd June 2013 at 1:23 am

Having reviewed the officers report, it's quite clear that he was very sympathetic to the proposals. However, his conclusion is very clear as to why it was reduced.

The following is the conclusion and recommendation of his report.

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Supporting comments have been borne in mind. The proposed is considered to be acceptable in terms of design and impact on the area and the social and cultural benefits are noted, as well as the site being in a sustainable location. However, the proposed is considered to have a significant impact on the amenities of neighbouring property number 83 due to being overbearing and resulting in a loss of sunlight to the lounge, kitchen and outdoor amenity area. As such, the proposed would not comply with all relevant Development Plan policies and there are no reasons that a departure from policy should be granted. Hence, it is recommended the application be refused.

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Not a "jobsworth". Just ensuring that planning law is abided

Sunday 23^rd June 2013 at 7:01 pm

As I journey through life I have discovered two things. Common sense is the least common of all the senses and there are still those who are prepared to defend the indefensible.

Monday 24^th June 2013 at 12:05 am

Drew. Will will have to differ. But that's OK with me :-)

Heidi Sumner

Tuesday 25^th June 2013 at 6:33 pm

It is astonishing that with all the appalling showy and ostentatious buildings that are given permission for personal indulgence that a community project, teensy weensy in comparison and yet put forward for the benefit of community, is refused.........very, very silly.