Go-ahead for University of Chester’s expansion plans

Sep 16 2009 by David Holmes, Chester Chronicle

CONTROVERSIAL plans to convert County Hall into an annex of the University of Chester were rubber-stamped.

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s planning board ignored pleas they should all declare a prejudicial interest because the authority will benefit from the sale to the tune of £10.5m.

The university wants to install two faculties – education and children’s services and health and social care – in County Hall, with a potential 1,300 students together with up to 300 staff.

Resident David Claymore, of nearby Shipgate Street, told the council chamber, there would be increased noise and disturbance, worse congestion, ‘degradation’ of houses, more graffiti and litter

He added: “Residents feel there has been a distinct lack of discussion and consultation on these important issues.”

Tory Cllr Razia Daniels (Overleigh), also of Shipgate Street, defied her own administration by arguing the board should listen to the concerns of residents including the 88 objectors.

Fellow Conservative Tom Parry (City) was “disappointed” his request for the application to be determined by the strategic planning board was rejected.

Labour Cllr Reggie Jones (Blacon) received a round-of-applause from the public gallery when he said: “The community that is Handbridge will change and we will have a new university quarter like Garden Lane and the tensions that exist down there between residents and the university.”

But Tory chairman Andrew Storrar (Mickle Trafford) hit back saying he thought an educational use was “far more sustainable” than other possibilities such as a hotel.

Cllr Ralph Oultram (Con, Weaver) said the council should support the education of young people and the benefits for the economy.

Cllr Adrian Walmsley (Con, Hoole & Newton) said there had been parking and traffic problems when the university took over the former Kingsway High School but these had been resolved through dialogue.

Members voted 7-2 in favour of approving the application, in a vote witnessed by council leader Mike Jones (Broxton) and chief executive Steve Robinson.

Labour has secured a special council meeting next Wednesday (September 23) at County Hall, open to the public, to discuss plans to sell County Hall and relocate into the new HQ building for £20m.