Tuesday 21st May 2013: A CONTROVERSIAL application for a Sikh school in Stoke Poges has been withdrawn a day before the planning hearing, with the academy instead planning to use new government laws to secure the site.
The developer hoping to house the Khalsa Secondary Academy in the Pioneer UK building on Hollybush Hill will now call on new Permitted Development Rights (PDR) legislation.
PDR will become law subject to Royal Assent on May 30, and will make it easier for schools to move into office buildings without having to obtain planning permission.
South Bucks District Council confirmed a statement was received last night from the agent, on behalf of the applicant Willmott Dixon Construction Limited.
It states: "This application has been withdrawn on the basis that we intend to rely on the Permitted Development Right (PDR), subject to Royal Assent on 30 May, to use Pioneer House as the temporary site for Khalsa school for 1 academic year from September 2013."
Villagers are vehemently opposed to the new school, and were gearing up to show their opposition at tomorrow’s planning hearing, which will now not go ahead.
Saera Carter, vice-chairman of Stoke Poges Parish Council and spokesperson for campaigners, has said they are taking legal advice and are considering their options in fighting the move.