Councillors in Manchester have indicated they are likely to refuse planning permission for an independent school to expand into a vacant care home on Crumpsall Lane, following nearly 90 objections from residents citing fears of 'gridlock traffic'.
Proposal details
The Belz School, currently based in Salford, plans to renovate the site to accommodate around 60 students and 20 staff, with future expansion to a maximum of 120 pupils. The school would specialise in children with SEND needs who may not have a formal diagnosis or EHCP, and cater to families with specific cultural needs within the Jewish community, as well as those learning English as a second language.
Resident concerns
Around 87 neighbours objected, citing 'backed up traffic, constant noise, and perpetual disruption from school activity'. A council report notes 10 comments in support, though around 90 letters of support are listed on the website. Councillors visited the site after a decision was deferred in July.
Councillor and school responses
At a committee meeting on August 6, Coun Dave Rawson said the site visit showed how congested the area is, with competition for spaces and nearby shops attracting traffic. He added, 'It clearly is a big worry about where the vehicles are going to go.' Coun Sam Easterby-Smith envisioned queues of vehicles waiting for the drop-off zone, causing conflicts with pedestrians and congestion on surrounding roads.
However, a school board member named Esther, who did not provide her last name, said car usage would be extremely small. She told the LDRS, 'Most of our families walk or take the bus, that's a part of our culture at the school.' She acknowledged the inconvenience but stressed the value of education.
Council recommendation and vote
A council report recommended approval, stating the school would address a shortfall in specialist educational provision in the area, including SEND facilities for the Jewish community. Despite this, seven of nine committee members voted they were 'minded to refuse'. Council officers will now review the application to determine if there are legal grounds to reject it before a final decision.
