Flood and traffic fears if extension gets go-ahead

1:08pm Thursday 4th October 2001

PLANS for extensions to a school could cause traffic chaos and exacerbate flooding if alterations are not considered.

Princes Risborough town councillors made the warning after plans were submitted for extensions to Icknield School in Wellington Avenue.

The school has amalgamated with Berryfield First School in Berryfield Road, with the school going on to the one site in Wellington Avenue on January 1.

Extra classrooms and facilities therefore have to be accommodated and plans were submitted to Buckinghamshire County Council for extensions at the site.

But residents nearby warned that the new building would result in more of the school grounds being covered with non-draining surfaces with nowhere for water to run except into neighbouring gardens.

Town councillors on the planning committee were also concerned at the problems with traffic.

They believed that a school travel plan tries to address some of the issues but provides no realistic proposals to reduce congestion.

Councillors added that the increase in traffic is a real concern when congestion in Wellington Avenue is already bad.

But John Mason, chairman of the temporary board of governors set up to oversee the amalgamation, said these issues were being addressed.

He said: "One of the school's neighbours drew our attention to the issue of flooding. When the play area is put down, there will be suitable drainage to ensure water does not drain off that way."

Mr Mason added that secure storage space for bikes will be included in plans so children can cycle to school with parents involved to implement alternative ways to school.

The county council will meet on Tuesday to discuss whether the plans can go ahead.

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