£3m Halesowen College centre poised for go-ahead
A £3 million performing arts centre at Halesowen College finally looks set to be given the go-ahead after being recommended for approval by planning bosses.
The college has faced a battle to gain support for the facility and had to withdraw initial plans after concerns were raised by fire chiefs.
Fresh proposals were then submitted in April and the college now appears set to receive the go-ahead to begin work.
The two-storey centre will provide teaching rooms and rehearsal space for students on music, drama and dance courses.
The Whittingham Road college has been struggling to provide enough space for the growing number of students taking performing arts courses, with some being forced to travel off campus to use facilities at Benjamins, a function hall in the town centre.
Planning officers have recommended the revised application for approval ahead of a meeting of Dudley Council's planning committee next Monday, when a final decision will be made.
The application appears to be on course for approval given that councillors have backed it previously.
The college's plans hit a stumbling block last year when council fire officers raised concerns. The new complex was due to be connected to other buildings at the Whittingham Road site by a glass walkway, which the college had hoped to use as an exhibition space and break area for students.
Halesowen councillor Karen Shakespeare said she was pleased the college was finally set to get permission for the facility but parking needed to be looked at.
