Hanover Primary School told to add a little colour to ‘sinister’ building
Published: 11 March, 2011
by TERRY MESSENGER
A COMPROMISE is to be hammered out to settle the row over a new school hall which has been likened to “a sinister military installation”.
Locals object to plans to build the hall at Hanover Primary School in Noel Road, Angel.
They believe that its “industrial style” grey design would wreck the look of the neighbourhood, which is a conservation area.
Eric Sorenson, of the Angel Association, a local amenity group, told Islington Council’s planning committee: “It’s an appalling industrial design, completely out of keeping with the area. It looks like a sinister, military installation.”
Noel Road is known locally for its elegant 19th-century terraced houses. The committee gave approval for the new building but called on the architects to come up with a new colour in consultation with residents – possibly green.
Headteacher Mandie Rees said the plan was a “once in a lifetime opportunity” for the school to have a modern assembly hall facility with access for children with disabilities.
A report from planning officials to the committee stated: “The proposal will provide much-needed improvements, additional space and a hall for the school.
“On balance the proposed works are justified by the need to update and improve teaching facilities in line with current standards.”