Derbyshire school site’s housing estate transformation tipped for approval

Plans to build a housing development on the site of an old school are likely to be approved.

Developers want to turn the former Gladys Buxton School and Sports Centre site in Dronfield into a 27-home estate.

The land includes some brownfield areas and playing fields and has been vacant for four years after the old buildings were demolished in 2019.

If approved, Rockliffe Homes, the developer, intends to not only create a housing estate but also construct a new sports pavilion to maintain sports facilities on the site.

The initial proposal for the housing development aimed to build 36 homes, but it was changed after locals raised concerns.

The updated plans now consist of four two-bedroom houses, 12 three-bedroom houses, and 11 four-bedroom houses. These homes will come with designated parking spots, with some having attached garages.

The developer has confirmed that Oakhill Medical Practice, the sizable parking area, and the nearby football pitch will stay and share access to Oakhill Road.

The plans are set to be approved at this week’s North East Derbyshire District Council’s planning meeting, however, approval is contingent on a Section 106 agreement. This agreement will involve financial contributions to local organizations like NEDDC Parks, Chesterfield Royal Hospital, and Derbyshire County Council. It will also include conditions related to affordable housing and the management of the pavilion.