PLANS to replace an existing school cloakroom with a smaller single-storey building and canopied area have been approved by Herefordshire planners.

The proposed plans for Weston Under Penyard Church Of England Primary School will provide an independent entrance and fire exit to the playground for pupils using the adjoining classroom as well as giving natural light to the classroom.

The existing cloakroom is constructed from UPVC panels and a polycarbonate roof with poor insulation properties. The proposed materials for the new structure will address these issues.

The extension will be clad in a range of secret-fix wall fixings. The roof panels will also be insulated and are ideal for building applications with roof pitches of four degrees or more.

Planning officer Natalie Sullivan said that the scale of the proposed development is not excessive for its intended use and is considered to be a modest extension of an appropriate scale, commensurate to the main school building.

Ms Sullivan concluded: “The proposal is considered to create a sustainable and well-integrated environment which enhances existing educational and community infrastructure, improving facilities through the provision of a new nursery area.

“The development would not result in any demonstrable impact upon the amenity or privacy of neighbouring dwellings given its single storey nature, replacing an existing structure on the site.

“The scale of the proposed development is considered to be sympathetic to the existing building and would represent a modest replacement of an existing structure. Furthermore, as the proposed development would be to the rear of the site, there is limited impact upon the character of the wider landscape as it is well screened from the roadside.

“Overall, the proposal is a modest addition to the school, which will integrate well within the existing building and will provide needed additional space.

“Therefore, the proposal is accordingly recommended for approval, subject to conditions.”