Walsall school avoids pupils ban as parking found

Hydesville Tower was given six months to find alternative spaces after a neighbouring pub car park, which was used by parents, was closed for redevelopment.

Walsall Council said the school must come up with a solution by December 17 as part of a planning condition which ensured parking was available.

But the school in Broadway North has managed to secure 30 spaces on a nearby site between Lower Rushall Street and Dog Kennel Lane, which they say is in walking distance for pupils.

As part of the planning condition, Hydesville had been warned they would have to cease taking new nursery pupils from the start of the next academic year if the matter wasn't resolved.

An update report has been produced to the council's planning committee which has been monitoring the situation. It comes after the Park Tavern pub was closed and bulldozed to make way for retirement homes.

In the report to councillors, head of planning David Elsworthy says: "On July 16, 2010, the council and the school entered into a section 106 agreement which made provision for steps to be taken by the school in relation to the parking.

"In the event that the parking facility became unavailable at any point in the future, the school would have 10 days within which to notify the council.

"After which the council would serve notice on the school to commence a six month period for the school to commence a six month period fir the school to put alternative provision in place.

"If the school failed to establish a replacement car parking facility within the given six month period, the school will cease taking new nursery pupils from the commencement of the next following academic year.

"The school have now provided sufficient information regarding alternative parking for parents of nursery pupils and staff for the council not to pursue injunctive action for non compliance of the section 106 planning obligation."

Hydesville headteacher Andrew McGinnes said: "I'm pleased to report we've been able to identify a car park within walking distance of our site that will greatly benefit parents bringing their children to and from nursery.

"In addition it will reduce the concentration of cars in our immediate vicinity during the morning and afternoon school run, therefore having a positive impact on the community; a great result all round."