Construction plans for new Dumfries High School set to change

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Construction plans for the new multi-million pound Dumfries High School are set to change.Ryder Architecture had planned to build the £33.5 million development in several stages which included the installation of a new 3G pitch.However, in a submission to the council’s planning applications site, the firm’s architectural director Matt Haggerty revealed it will now be built in one stage after a review of the project.His letter states: “Further to previous correspondence, we have been instructed by our client Hub South West and Dumfries and Galloway Council to withdraw the previously discussed planning application (for a new 3G pitch).“Due to a review of the programme, the project will be revert to a single stage delivery and on this basis a full application for the site, including the proposed school and landscaping will follow in due course.”The letter appears as part of an online planning application for the construction of a new 3G pitch and the erection of eight 15 metre high floodlights which has now been withdrawn due to the review.The new playing field was originally the first stage of the project to enable the provision of a 3G surface for pupils throughout the building phase before the old one was removed.However nearby residents complained about the 3G proposal with 12 objections sent to the local authority.Objectors cited “excessive shouting, swearing, ball noise and whistling” as they tried to get it shown the red card.One letter said: “The relocation of this pitch will result in an unacceptable level of noise and light pollution.

The noise level arises from users, spectators and the ball continually striking the surrounding fence.“The language of users in a heightened state of excitement can be unacceptable.