A planning application to demolish the existing museum and art store at the Priory Depot and replace with the construction of a new bespoke specialist store is being approved, subject to conditions.
The site is an area within Priory Gardens, separate from the public park. The decision to grant planning permission was made at the Plans Sub-Committee No.1 on Thursday, with conditions.
The Committee heard that that the single storey building and low pitch roof were designed to meet the national archiving guidance for the storage of heritage artefacts and documents. Whilst the building will be larger than the existing building, the overall height, measured from ground level to the roof apex, is below that of the existing buildings on the site. The committee also acknowledged the concerns raised by local residents as voiced by the ward councillor who spoke on their behalf.
Councillor Yvonne Bear, Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing said, “Our borough’s heritage is important and we need to ensure that the archives, which contains important historical records, and museum items are properly stored in line with national guidance. The building will meet future needs as well and with the new covered display area, will increase access for school children and local people to our local history.”
Councillor Shaun Slator, Chairman of Plans Sub-Committee No.1 said, “We were satisfied that there was a statutory need for these facilities, with the design following the specific requirements. I am glad that the development increases the amount of publicly accessible open space within Priory Gardens and the community use is further strengthened through the retention of the Friends Growing Space and the addition of a disabled toilet for public use during events in the Gardens.”
Feedback from the consultation influenced several amendments to the proposed development prior to submission of the full planning application. These included reducing the site’s overall footprint to create new publicly accessible open space linked to Priory Gardens and enhancing the landscaping and biodiversity proposals. Additional practical improvements had also been incorporated such as tool storage for the Friends Growing Space, a managed toilet for users of the archive, museum, art building and growing space, and the introduction of a canopy to support outdoor educational and community activities.
The Committee heard that a number of objections had been received to the proposals, including from the Friends of Priory Gardens, with 112 written objections and a petition.
The conditions included ensuring a continued electricity supply for the new tool store which would be used in support of the Friends growing space which is being fully retained.
The location for the store was confirmed by the Council’s Executive last year and followed a careful examination of options across the borough, with public consultation about the plan following.
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