School's application approved despite "eyesore" concerns

PLANS to change access to St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School have been approved, in spite of concerns by some councillors about the loss of green space.
The school had sought permission to create a new pedestrian entrance, accessed from Schofield Road, and a change to the boundaries.
Councillor Jim Ryan (Con, Bickenhill) said the access could be provided without taking the “pleasant” wedge of open space away.
“You have got a green area both sides and you’ve got trees. Now the proposal is to move the palisade fence right to the footpath boundary and that green area will be lost as an amenity to local residents.
“And we know in Kingshurst and other areas it’s heavily congested, heavily built up... and every little green, open space is treasured.”
Coun John Windmill (Lib Dem, Olton) said: “I have very great sympathy with Coun Ryan. I see no reason whatsoever for destroying what is a very nicely maintained area of green open space.
“An iron fence, two metres high, all along there is an eyesore quite frankly.”
While Solihull Council’s planning committee voted to approve the plan by a majority, the application was subject to conditions and Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs).