Agenda item

To receive the report of the Chief Planning Officer on a pre-application for the formation of new railway station, car parking, pedestrian access and associated works at land south of Manston Lane, Thorpe Park, LS15

The report of the Chief Planning Officer informed Members of a pre-application presentation for the formation of new railway station, car parking, pedestrian access, and associated works at land south of Manston Lane, Thorpe Park, LS15.

Slides and photographs were shown throughout the presentation.

The work-in-progress proposals were presented by the applicant’s agent to inform the Plans Panel of the emerging development, allowing Members to make comments on the evolving scheme, and highlight any issues prior to the intended submission of a full planning application.

Members were informed of the following points:

• This would be a new two-platform railway station at land south of Manston Lane, Thorpe Park. Each platform would be 150cm in length, allowing for future 6-car trains.
• It would be fully accessible for all.
• 400 plus car parking spaces, with disabled parking and EV charging points.
• The station would be unstaffed, there would waiting shelters, ticket machines and CCTV.
• Discussions were on going with train operators as to the frequency of services and routes.
• At this stage, no details of the design of the station had been provided however, Network Rail had indicated that the design would be similar to those recently constructed at Low Moor (Bradford) and Kirkstall Forge.

Members questions and comments included:

• It was noted that there would not be reductions to services at other stations, but this would depend on further studies to be undertaken.
• The design was standard across the country but options to change the design could be considered, especially in consideration to listed buildings and historic references to the area.
• There was limited parking and there were further investigations taking place to look to ‘future proof’ the car park to allow for a decked solution in the future.
• Members commented that a parking management plan may be needed to prevent parking at The Springs for the station
• Members requested that consideration be given to the colour of the footbridge and that glass was not used in the design as this could be subject to vandalism. There was a suggestion of a mural like the one at Crossgates Station.
• The station needed to well lit, but appropriate to not cause light pollution and paths should have escape routes.
• Play equipment to be provided for families travelling with children to keep them away from the platform edge.
• Options to be considered to reduce noise levels whilst ballast cleaning is taking place.
• The need for better park and ride facilities for the East of the City.
• Tracks on stairways to assist cyclists.
• Consultation with community groups to ensure the station would be inclusive, safe and accessible for all.

Members had been requested to answer 3 questions within the submitted report. However, the Area Planning Manager recapped on the matters raised by Members in relation to design, incorporating local history, lighting and safety, interactive areas for children, parking facilities and minimum disturbance whilst ballast cleaning. It was the view that all the comments made by the Panel had answered the questions.

RESOLVED – That the submitted report and discussions be noted.