CONTROVERSIAL proposals to build a gymnastics centre in the Easthampstead countryside are set to be thrown out by council planning chiefs.
The divisive designs, earmarked for land south of Downshire Golf Complex, were drawn up by Bracknell Gymnastics Club.
IN FULL: Here's what Bracknell Gymnastics Club are proposing to build
They will be voted on next week after months in limbo, but planning officers do not appear to be impressed with the plans.
Development chiefs at the council have recommended the proposals are refused for a number of reasons.
These include:
- Loss of current open space
- An ‘adverse’ impact on the character and appearance of the area
- The loss of protected trees
- An adverse impact on protected species and their habitats
- The lack of an associated travel plan
Since submitting the application in October, hundreds of people have submitted letters of support and letters of objection in response to the plans.
READ MORE: Residents split over controversial gymnastics centre plan
According to Bracknell Forest Council’s planning page, 579 letters of support have been received by the authority, with another 487 objections lodged.
Although according to an officer’s report, of 1,237 representations received, just 320 were sent in support.
Dozens of letters of support were submitted from outside Bracknell Forest, too.
One supporter wrote: “I fully support this application, it's been a well thought and designed premise to enable the members of Bracknell gymnastics club to continue with their training and achievements in a much more suited building than their current premises.”
READ MORE: Expert says countryside gym plan could harm hedgehogs
Those who opposed the plans cited concerns which were shared by the council’s planning officers, including a loss of green space, protected trees and wildlife habitats.
One objection letter read: “Although I fully understand and sympathise with the reasons for this new gymnasium I totally object to the location.
“Wooden Hill is used extensively by schools, residents, dog walkers, runners, numerous different sportsmen.
“Having lost a significant area around the Golden Retriever pub and Nine Mile Ride to road improvements, [I] feel our little community is disappearing. Both my wife and I are keen conservationists and do not want to see further elimination to the wonderful trees and wildlife taken [from] our walks.”
READ MORE: Town council recommends plan for countryside gym is refused
Councillors will consider the support and objection to the plans, as well as the planning officer’s refusal, when they meet to vote on the designs on Thursday, January 21.
Upon submitting the application, Bracknell Gymnastics Club said the new facility would be “purpose-built” for the benefit of the town’s gymnasts.
According to plans, it would feature a number of different exercise areas at the site.
This would include a team gym space and a floor exercise area on the lower ground floor.
The next floor up is made up of another floor exercise area and a viewing gallery.
Overall, the building would come to 2,300 square metres.
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