Hindlip CE First School to lose war memorial car park

Hindlip CE First School was told it could no longer use the Fernhill Heath War Memorial car park from October 9 because six houses will be built behind the village hall.

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The decision has led to "upset" and many fearing the safety of children during pick up and drop off times at the schools as the car park is the only one parents can use. 

Losing the car park means parents and children must either park on the busy A38 or cross it to get to the school.

SLOW DOWN: The school is on the busy A38. (Image: NQ)

The controversial plan to build six homes at the site was rejected by Wychavon District Council planners but won by appeal with the government's planning inspectorate. 

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In response, Karl Lockley, director of Lockley Homes, said parents could use an "improved functional" car park after the team finishes the homes in six months' time and that it is dangerous to allow children near a building site.

County Councillor Tony Miller, who lives in the village, said he was deeply disappointed and sad after hearing the news.

Fears were expressed that the road could get even busier at peak times. (Image: NQ)

Cllr Miller has received several complaints over the loss of the car park, with parents fearing for their children's safety.

"I can see the coffin nails being prepared for Hindlip First School [as people won't want to send children there]," he said. 

"It is not safe for the children and not good for the school.

"I think it is unfair and not good that the school in the village is not being supported."

The car park which is used by parents and staff. (Image: NQ)

A spokesperson for Hindlip CE First School added: "We share the concerns of our school community regarding parking options near school, especially given the upcoming development works and the Memorial Hall now becoming unavailable for parents and staff to use the car park.

"We are continuing to actively liaise with the developer, Lockley Homes and the local authority to explore the parking options available to us, and we will keep parents updated with our progress on this."

Worcestershire County Council said it agreed with the school.

The plot of land at the back of the War Memorial. (Image: NQ)

Mr Lockley said the War Memorial car park closure is "short-term pain for a long-term gain."

He said the car park will have a path connecting the car park to the school once work has been completed, and Lockley Homes has guaranteed the village hall a prolonged future by giving them money.

The car park will lose four parking spaces after the homes are built. 

Mr. David Kilner, chair of Fernhill Heath War Memorial Club, said discussions are taking place between them, the school and the developers.

He added: "As the Chairman of FHWMC, I am fully aware of the situation and safety issues concerning the children and the parking situation of the parents and teachers.

"I am, at present, actively working on trying to mitigate some of these issues."