York: Neighbours oppose plans for school car park

Neighbours have opposed plans for a new car park and access road at one of the oldest schools in the world.

St Peter's School in York, which was founded in 627 AD, has applied for planning permission to create a new car park, access road and sports pitches.

But residents living on Westminster Road, which will lead to the car park, said they are worried about extra traffic and pollution.

St Peter's School said it would "enhance sports facilities" for pupils.

The new car park would provide space for 67 cars and seven coaches. There are also plans for an artificial grass hockey pitch, tennis and netball courts.

Local resident Clive Appleyard said it would be the school's fifth car park on site and said the plans are a "major concern" for neighbours.

"St Peter's School already has four entrances. It's on green belt land and is one of the highest flood zones," he said.

He said there are fears the plan could also lead to some trees being cut down.

Residents on nearby Water Lane, Westminster Road, Greencliffe Drive and The Avenue have formed a campaign group to object to the proposals.

The project is expected to cost £4m, according to a planning application submitted to City of York Council.

The plans are a "once in a generation opportunity to enhance sports facilities, increase student participation and ensure more community sports groups can share in first-class facilities," according to a school spokesman.

He said the new parking and drop off points "will help ease current traffic issues in streets around the site, which is an issue raised by local residents over some time".

St Peter's is the fourth oldest school in the world and was founded in the same year as York Minster. Guy Fawkes attended the school in 1575.

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