Copyright expressandstar
The plans submitted by 4D Planning will turn currently vacant units on Swan Road, Lichfield into a Mathnasium facility. The international company, which started in 2002 now has over 30 centres across the UK and operates in 15 countries, with more than 1,300 centres globally. The company offers extra maths education for children aged between six and 16. They aim to create a fun atmosphere with games and puzzles which encourages a positive attitude. A bespoke plan is created from an initial assessment and the pupils can work on areas for improvement at their own pace supported by a tutor. It is expected that children would attend the facility for tutoring sessions of between 60 and 90 minutes. There is also scope for staff to meet children at local nearby schools, as it is preferred that parents don’t remain in the centre as it is a distraction for the children. The location has also been specifically chosen to provide facilities for parents to use while the tutoring is taking place. These include cafés, bars, restaurants, supermarkets, gyms, hairdressers and beauticians. The development will support two full time jobs and has the ability to open from 8am until 10pm. However it is expected that most activity will take place between 3.30pm and 7.30pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 3pm on Saturday. The education establishment is expecting 100 students a day, however no more than 40 students per session. Planning officers at Lichfield District Council approved the application earlier this week. The report explaining the decision stated: “Whilst within the city centre boundary, the site does not lie within an identified primary retail area in the Lichfield City Neighbourhood Plan, therefore there are no policy restrictions against the change of use from commercial to an educational facility. “The application is supported by a planning statement outlining the benefits of an educational facility within proximity to other mixed class E units such as restaurants and supermarkets, supporting the use change within a city centre location. “There are also several primary and high schools within proximity to the site including Queens Croft High School, Christ Church Primary School, St. Michael’s Primary School, Saxon Hill Academy and King Edward VI School. The principle is of an educational facility in this location is considered acceptable and in accordance with local and neighbourhood policy aims.”
