Marlbrook School expansion plans approved

One of Herefordshire’s most popular schools is set to grow after councillors this week gave the go-ahead to extension plans.

Herefordshire Council approved the proposals which will see an increase from 570 to 630 pupils at Marlbrook Primary School in Hereford and build a new car park and better pedestrian access.

Council leaders agreed last May to invest £4.6m to expand what is one of the Ofsted rated outstanding school.

The plans include a two storey addition to the school which includes three new classrooms, more hall space, a new kitchen and storage.

An extra 40 car parking spaces would also be built, and the scheme will also create an extra four full-time and six part-time members of staff roles.

Redhill councillor Paul Rone said the expansion was important for the school and county.

“Marlbrook School is known to have pressures for places because, not only does it serve Redhill and Newton Farm which are the areas of highest density in Herefordshire, but also because it is an Ofsted outstanding school,” he said.

“The proposals for three form entry have been on the design board and been mulled over for a number of years now.

“The opportunity for confirming our ethos of giving young people a great start in life is here and it is within your gift as the planning committee.”

Coun Rone also said the extra parking spaces would be much needed.

“The utopian idea that everyone will walk or ride their bikes to school is a pipe dream.

“Having the extra 40 car parking spaces as part of this application carries great importance for me.”

But some councillor such as Felicty Norman said the proposal was of poor design.

“It could be so much better. We seem to go for very limited and unimaginative designs,” she said.

Coun Anthony Powers raised concerns about the plans being approved during the pre-election period as it was linked to a cabinet decision.

Cabinet member Nigel Shaw, who also sits on the planning committee, left the room for the debate but fellow cabinet member Paul Rone was allowed to speak as the local member at the discretion of chairman Phil Cutter.

Councillors approved the proposals with eleven votes in favour, one against and one abstention.