Community centre plans turned down again over 'detrimental' noise concerns
Plans to open a community centre have been rejected for a second time over concerns that noise from the facility would disturb local residents.
Council planning officers said new proposals to open the venue on Elder Grove, in Darnley, failed to demonstrate that it would not “result in significant detrimental noise impacts.”
In June last year, Wakefield Council turned down an application to provide educational workshops, space for daily prayers and facilities for sports clubs for up to 300 people at the premises.
An updated scheme was then put forward to convert the former gym building.
A planning statement said: “The transformation aligns with local development plans prioritising community health, cultural enrichment, and social inclusivity.
“We believe it will deliver substantial public value and expanded community engagement.
“The number of occupants will not change significantly from the existing gym.”
Proposed opening times for the centre were between 7am and 10pm, seven days a week.
The council received 67 comments of support for the facility.
One supporter said: “The building and surrounding area have fallen into disrepair and the proposal would allow for a full renovation of the premises and facilities.
“The community centre would be a positive benefit to the area, preventing anti-social behaviours and crimes.”
Another resident in favour of the plan said: “Due to the nature of the premises, there is no risk of loud, disruptive music being played.
“The place of worship would be very close for people to walk to rather than using vehicles to go to other mosques.”
There were 17 objections to the scheme, with one resident commenting: “There is a significant amount of noise from the premises which is not respectful or appropriate for residents.”
Another said: “There has been anti-social behaviour, noise and disturbance since the site was taken over.
“There has been a significant increase in traffic, especially in the summer when the footfall starts from 4am.”
An officer’s report said the scheme was “acceptable” in terms of its design and on the grounds of highways safety, but added: “The additional noise assessment submitted with this application is not considered to address the previous reason for refusal.
“It has not been clearly demonstrated that the proposed development would not cause significant detrimental impacts to the amenity of nearby residents.”