Plans to convert former schoolhouse in Pallion into supported living accommodation

Plans to convert an old schoolhouse building into supported living accommodation could be given the green light next week.
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Sunderland City Council submitted a planning application to its own planning authority in August 2021 for the former Pallion Primary Schoolhouse.

The application site is attached to what was originally Pallion Infants and Junior School, now The Link School.

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Today, the red brick building stands within a plot of land at the corner of the original school site, at the junction of Waverley Terrace and the rear lane of Ferndale Terrace.

Pallion Primary Schoolhouse, Waverley Terrace, Pallion.Pallion Primary Schoolhouse, Waverley Terrace, Pallion.
Pallion Primary Schoolhouse, Waverley Terrace, Pallion.

New proposals for the site include changing the building use from a domestic house to new supported living accommodation, with two one-bedroom studio apartments and single one-bedroom staff accommodation/facilities.

The plans are set to be decided by Sunderland City Council’s Planning and Highways (East) Committee next week.

In a report prepared for the panel, planning officers have recommended the scheme for approval.

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The report reads: “The proposal is a form of residential development and therefore not considered likely to adversely impact upon the residential amenities of nearby properties.

“The proposed layout will also provide prospective occupiers with a good standard of amenity.

“The proposal therefore accords with the objectives of these policies and is considered to be acceptable in this respect.”

A design and access statement submitted to officers with the planning application also provides more details on the proposed supported living use at the site.

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The design and access statement reads: “Supported living schemes assist customers with their day-to-day living promoting self-reliance, independence and personal wellbeing inspiring each person to reach their full potential and live their life in line with their own personal choices.

“This proposal is to provide a service which ensures the best outcomes for customers by working in partnership with individuals and families/carers and through adopting person-centred approaches – vital to delivering independence and control for persons.”

City councillors will discuss the application before making a decision based on the report at a meeting on Monday, November 1 in Sunderland Civic Centre’s council chamber.

The planning meeting starts at 5.30pm and is open to the public.

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