CONTROVERSIAL plans to erect a continental-style wooden gazebo in the grounds of Northview School in Highworth have been deferred.
Swindon Council planners have decided to negotiate with the school after objectors said the siting of the wooden structure was unsuitable.
The 3.8 metre high and 5.5 metre wide structure would be used as an outside classroom for up to 25 children, but some residents living nearby in The Dormers, whose houses who would back onto the new structure, said the gazebo was unnecessary and would spoil the view across the school grounds.
Although planning officers recommended the application's approval, planners decided to defer the decision to allow the director of environmental services time to renegotiate with the school over a possible relocation.
One of the residents' concerns is that the gazebo would attract teenagers and underage drinkers.
"The grounds are regularly used by individuals for the consumption of alcohol and other activities in the evenings, weekends and school holidays," the report tabled before planners said. "The gazebo would be an added attraction to further these activities."
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