Controversial proposals to build a state-of-the-art primary school on a Leeds rugby pitch have been approved in principle - despite concerns from a local rugby club.
Members of East Leeds Amateur Rugby League Club have been told their pitch has been earmarked for the new Richmond Hill Primary School - but are concerned that the plans will mean two years of disruption that could wreak havoc on the club's finances.
Club trustee Rhonda Langton told members of Leeds council's east plans panel yesterday that she had concerns about the size of the proposed on-site replacement pitch, the lack of replacement facilities during construction and the fact that the club's 350 signed players will have to play and train away from its base.
They have been promised a nearby replacement pitch but the club has raised concerns that a new playing field would not be of the same standard.
Langton added:
"It's the right scheme for the wrong site."
A number of concerns have been received about the proposals, including petitions signed by more than 270 people, although an objection from Sport England was dropped this week.
'Disruptive for parents and pupils'
Headteacher at Richmond Hill Primary, Sue Mudie, said she saw the 630-place new school as one of the most energy-efficient school buildings in the world and a leader in supporting autistic children. She added that the school was currently housed on two sites, which was disruptive for parents and pupils. She said:
"I hope the building could be a hub of activity for this diverse community and improve the standard of education and aspirations of youngeters in Richmond Hill. The area has been stripped of its assets - there's even talk of its library closing."
Councillor Don Wilson said that 'it shouldn't be beyond the wit' of Leeds council and Education Leeds to sort the issues raised by East Leeds ARLC out.
Councillor Peter Gruen agreed. He said:
"This part of East Leeds is impoverished and desperate for new facilities. We are desperate to get more primary school places - Leeds is 300-400 places short for the next few years. The children and parents in the area are deserving of new facilities.
"I am in favour of the application, but there are clearly issues that need resolving with the rugby club."
Gruen said the plans should be approved in principle subject to a number of conditions, including that a project plan be brought back to councillors looking at interim agreements with the rugby club.
Councillor Mick Lyons added:
"Richmond Hill has been promised this school for years. Children have been taught in prefabricated huts with leaking roofs and they deserve better. I am hugely disappointed this plan doesn't have overwhelming community support."
Councillors agreed to adopt Gruen's proposal, and approved the plans subject to conditions and receiving a proper project plan.
Background to new school
Education Leeds will replace the school's existing aging buildings with a unique new £10m facility designed and built to meet the revolutionary 'Passivhaus' design standards.
The school design uses an innovative approach to low energy buildings and will achieve low running costs as it uses nominal amounts of energy for heating and cooling.
The school will also include a number of innovative and 'futureproof' features including wide corridors - or 'learning streets' - to allow for group and individual learning away from the traditional classroom; larger classrooms to allow for future flexibility across the school; small group rooms for personalised learning; dedicated multi-purpose community space; and a multi-purpose hall.
The new school - which is planned to open in September 2012 - will include a new three form of entry primary school, SEN (special education needs) provision for 16 children with autism and a nursery.
The SEN provision will provide specialist learning environment for 16 autistic children who will be able to learn in a purpose-built classroom.
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