RESIDENTS living around Prince Henry’s School in Evesham are demanding greater transparency about proposals to develop the school, including plans to triple the size of The Henrician.
Longstanding concerns about traffic congestion at peak times along narrow residential roads – which become easily blocked when the school hosts – events have been exacerbated following rumours of a potential extension and modernisation of the former Evesham Arts Centre.
Musician Marion Fleetwood, who lives with her partner in Princess Road, brought the matter to the attention of Evesham Town Council at February’s monthly meeting on February 16.
The residential roads around the school are prone to traffic congestion.
The former arts programmer and trustee of Stratford Artshouse asked councillors if they were aware of the project, and that in light of Wychavon District Council’s deal to buy the Riverside Shopping Centre, to redevelop it into a cultural and retail hub for the town. She added that turning the Public Hall back into a destination arts venue made better sense.
“We are deeply concerned about the possibility of an expansion, and although plans have not been submitted to the council yet, from what we understand, the school is some way into the process, has consulted with parents and local councillors.
“Yet again, the residents have not been approached for their opinions. A large number of us have written letters to the school and council officers, asking that we be consulted and have had no formal replies.
“We have found it incredibly disappointing, given the scale of the impact a 1000-seater venue would have on our neighbourhood,” she told the Observer.
Marion Fleetwood, resident of Princess Road. s
A petition to Wychavon District Council planning committee has been started, representing disgruntled Greenhill residents. The majority of householders have signed it.
The petition calls for a proper public consultation process before any decisions are taken and reiterates the claim that the possible future expansion of The Henrician would be seriously detrimental to the local community.
It echoes Ms Fleetwood’s point that a much better solution for the town and district would be to provide for a large performance space at the Public Hall.
“The overwhelming feeling of the residents, gathered through a petition we have circulated, is that whilst we welcome the enhancement of the cultural offer of our town, The Henrician is absolutely not the answer.
She added, residents believe the town and night-time economy would benefit more from the development of a town centre theatre and events space.
The school has been on its present site since the late 19th Century.
Prince Henry’s headteacher Dr Tony Evans, confirmed that the school was in the exploratory stages of considering potential future improvements to areas of the school, including The Henrician.
He also said that no formal planning application has been submitted and no final decisions have been taken, and committed to a proper, transparent consultation exercise.
“The Henrician is a valued educational and community facility, supporting school productions, drama, music and wider community use,” said the head.
“Any future redevelopment would be rooted in strengthening these educational benefits, improving accessibility and ensuring the venue remains fit for future generations.
“We are very keen to approach any potential developments responsibly and thoughtfully, and we will continue to communicate openly as discussions evolve.”
Read a recent letter sent to parents on February 25 about the school’s vision for The Henrician here.
