Ambitious plans for £1 million Scout HQ in Stratford
PLANS have been revealed for a £1 million state-of-the-art scout HQ in Stratford.
The planning application for the two-storey building in New Broad Street was submitted to Stratford District Council following a consultation which included parents and neighbours.
The building, if approved, would be home to 1st Stratford Scouts who say that their present ‘hut’ is no longer fit for purpose. The replacement building would offer a modern space for scouting activities with enhanced storage and space for community use.
Christine McIntosh, deputy group scout leader and chair of the hut redevelopment committee, said: “1st Stratford Scouts has been a cornerstone of the local community for 110 years, celebrating its centenary in 2014.
“In keeping with the scout values of integrity, care, belief and cooperation, 1st Stratford has a strong tradition of welcoming community groups and the new premises will ensure this tradition continues.
“Current users include the boxers and Muslim prayer group, whilst groups such as the Guides, Mencap, Warhammer Group and yoga classes have utilised the hut in the past.
“The new building will also cater for the needs of the community should anyone need the space.
“The new design is inclusive with accessible facilities such as ramps, wide doorways and accessible rooms to ensure the space is usable and welcoming to all members of the community.”
She added: “Despite concerns being raised by residents regarding parking arrangements, no objection was received from [Warwickshire County Council] highways due to the existing provision of permit-only parking in this area of Old Town.
“A significant increase in traffic is not expected.”
However, the scheme has caused concern among nearby neighbours who say that it is inappropriate for its location and will increase traffic chaos in a residential area – an area that has already been expanded by new housing on the former Territorial Army base.
So far 21 members of the community have contacted SDC, mostly objecting to the proposal and citing concerns about parking, and a lack of consideration for the neighbours.
One said: “It is my view, following the recent meeting/presentation, that insufficient consideration has been made to the impact on local residents of this project both during demolition/construction and after completion.
“New Broad Street is a narrow street which already experiences challenges with access and parking.
“At present activities in the scout hall already cause significant inconvenience to residents of the street due to inconsiderate parking by attendees.
“Increased use of this facility will undoubtedly make the parking situation worse during periods of use. If there is no plan in place to mitigate the above then it is my view that the plan should not be allowed to proceed.
“If the Scout association wants an improved facility within Stratford there are surely better locations than a small plot in a narrow no-through road.
“The Shottery scout site is less than a five-minute walk away and this has land to spare.”
Another said: “The design is overbearing, stark and not in character with Old Town or the domestic appearance of New Broad Street. There is no demonstrable need from scouts as to the need to double the size of the existing site.”
The scout group is undertaking significant fundraising activities to pay for the project.
Anyone who is able to help with fundraising or sponsorship can contact 1st.stratford@warwickshirescouts.org.uk.
