A former chapel on Archel Road is set to be transformed into a nursery after councillors approved a change of use application. The building, located in the Turneville/Chesson Conservation Area, will accommodate 80 preschool children and 35 staff members, addressing a local demand for childcare.
The Planning and Development Control Committee, meeting on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, heard that the proposal involves minimal internal alterations, with no changes to the building's exterior. These internal alterations are designed to adapt the space for nursery use while preserving the chapel's character.
Concerns raised by objectors regarding potential traffic impact were addressed by officers. They noted the site's high Public Transport Accessibility Level (PTAL) rating of 6a, indicating good access via public transport. To further mitigate traffic concerns, the applicant has committed to a comprehensive travel plan. This includes staggered drop-off and pick-up times between 8am and 10am, and 4:30pm and 6:30pm. Additionally, the nursery will provide 14 cycling spaces on the street.
Officers concluded that the change of use would activate a vacant building and meet a local demand for childcare. The proposal was approved, subject to conditions including sound insulation and restrictions on external play area hours. A Section 106 legal agreement also needs to be completed. This agreement is often used to secure contributions towards local infrastructure or services as part of planning permission, though specific details for this case are not elaborated upon in the provided information.
Further details regarding the planning application and committee meeting can be found in the public reports pack for the Planning and Development Control Committee meeting on April 14, 2026. Public reports pack 14th-Apr-2026 19.00 Planning and Development Control Committee
