DEVELOPERS wanting to build a car park for a school in Oakenshaw have been told to go away and speak to the teachers and governors after the school said it didn’t want it.

The build forms part of a mitigation measure into the redevelopment of North Bierley Waste Water Treatment Works which was approved by Kirklees Council recently.

The committee approved the plans subject to referral to the Secretary of State.

The car park is planned to be built by the developer for the school but concern was raised that it was on the wrong side of the road to the school and could present a safety concern for the children.

A planned zebra crossing was also considered to be too close to a blind bend.

Almost 90 representations objecting to the proposals had been received.

Helen Williams, for the Diocese of Leeds on behalf of Woodlands Primary School said they were disappointed that they were not involved in any discussions.

“The school and the diocese has objected to the plans because of the potential impact of the car park and lack of information.

“The site entrance is across the road from the school and brings up safety concerns. The site of the zebra crossing is not considered safe and there is the question of financial impact. Who will police it and clean it.”

She also suggested a better site near the school could be found.

Regulatory and Appeal Committee member Councillor Doreen Lee added: “How could it be kept just for the school? It could end up being full on travellers one night,”

she said.

Officers said once agreed a condition could be placed that it be used only for the school and that a barrier could be placed at the entrance which was kept locked outside school hours.

“I have to say that schools in my area would give their right arm to have a car park made for them, but developers should be talking to the teachers so they understand what it is about.”

Councillor Sarah Ferriby (Labour, Wyke) speaking on behalf of the school added: “I feel there should have been more information about highways issues and the number of double yellow lines that will go down.

“The impact of this could have a detrimental impact on the school and they will be left with a long-term burden.”

Martin Shepherd, agent for the developers of the water treatment works said: “We will be more than happy to speak to the school and discuss their concerns,” he said.

The committee asked that the developers engage in discussion with the school and the plans come back in three months.