Updated plans for new nursery in Shirley given go-ahead

An application to convert St Jude's in Warren Avenue was approved by the city council in July last year, despite a large number of objections to the scheme.

Now proposed alterations to the scheme, including an access ramp and a roof terrace, have also been given the green light.

As reported in the Daily Echo, it is set to become the first neuro-divergent pre-school in Hampshire, looking after children who might struggle in conventional nurseries.

A council report described the amendments as positive changes that would improve the facilities and appearance of the nursery.

A previous proposal to build flats on the site sparked a protest by residents in 2015 (Image: Newsquest)

The "key consideration" was the impact the terrace would have on people living near the 67-year-old building.

"The terrace would be accessed from the first floor to provide an outdoor facility for the baby area.

"The details have been amended and now include the provision of a 1.7m high glazed screen around the useable area of the terrace."

READ MORE: Proposed new nursery in former church will be the first of its kind in Hampshire

Referring to two houses at Warren Avenue at Chestnut Road, the report added: "Whilst concerns relating to overlooking are noted, the provision of glazed panels around the terrace would prevent direct views.

"Furthermore, planters would provide additional screening to overcome the perception of overlooking.

Updated plans for a nursery include a roof terrace on the southern side of the building (Image: ADP Architects)

The report said the proposed nursery would help meet a recognised need in the city.

It added: "The scheme would not be out of character and would not cause significant harm to the amenity of neighbouring residents, local parking or highway safety given the use will serve the community."

The nursery will be run by Tiny Toes (Southampton) Ltd, whose original application was opposed by people objecting to the loss of a place of worship.

READ MORE: Religious leaders under fire for refusing to allow another Christian group to buy St Jude's Church

The former St Jude's Church in Warren Avenue is due to become a nursery for up to 120 children (Image: Newsquest)

A design and access statement that accompanied the proposal said: "Whilst the proposed use is not a 'community facility' it does offer a vital community service and will see the retention of the church building.

"The church is no longer viable within this particular community and has been offered up for alternative use by the diocese.

"The locality comprises a relatively high density of family houses forming a tight residential community close to Southampton General Hospital and other care facilities where there is likely to be a high level of demand for the service proposed.

"One third of families that currently have children at the Tiny Toes Nursery at Lordshill are employed by the NHS."