Tividale community centre plans set to be rejected over parking concerns

Leaders from the Gurdwara Guru in Tividale had applied for planning permission for the new centre to be built on the car park of its temple in Upper Chapel Street.

But ahead of a decision being made next week, planning officers have recommended refusal over insufficient car parking.

A petition with scores of signatures was submitted to the council against the plans.

Sandwell Council officers cited parking concerns from the centre being built which could be 'to the detriment' of other road users.

A council report says: "Following a number of car parking surveys being undertaken and in consideration of evidence provided by residents, the head of highways has now formally objected to the proposal.

"It is considered that the existing car park is wholly required for the existing use by the temple and any loss and increased demand would inevitably lead to increased parking on adjacent streets...

"The proposal would result in removal of an aspect of the car park which would result in insufficient car parking being provided for the existing temple and the proposed centre.

"This would be to the detriment of the users of the highway and refusal is therefore recommended."

The council received seven objections to the proposals – one of which was the petition with 62 signatures.

Opponents raised fears about parking, noise pollution, light pollution and potential for anti-social behaviour.

The community centre has been mooted for land which was turned into a car park back in 2010 – with extra spaces added two years later.

An application was submitted to the council for the centre along with 'associated works'. It was earmarked for the west side of the car park and was due to be open from 9.30am to 5pm from Monday to Sunday.