An assessment of the impact of demolishing a North Yorkshire school as part of its refurbishment has been submitted to the council.

The redevelopment of Michael Syddall Church of England Primary School in Catterick, involves demolishing the existing building and constructing a new single-storey building, alongside additional facilities such as access roads, parking, a replacement playing field, and landscaping.

North Yorkshire Council has determined that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is not required for this project.

Despite the site being in Flood Zone 3a, it has a low actual flood risk according to a Flood Risk Assessment from April 2024.

The design of the new building, covering approximately 1,525 sqm, incorporates flood resilience measures and a Flood Warning and Evacuation Plan.

The school will continue to accommodate 252 students and 20 staff, matching current levels.

Additional facilities include informal play areas and a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA).

The application includes a Tree Survey, Ecological Survey, Drainage Strategy, and Construction Environmental Management Plan, all aimed at mitigating environmental risks.

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The school site is deemed free from significant contamination and does not contain habitats of protected species.

Using 1.26 hectares of existing school land, the project is not expected to have significant environmental effects.

Normal waste and minor emissions are expected from construction, with noise and light impacts anticipated but not at significant levels.

Construction pollution will be controlled by site management.

The site, near the River Swale, incorporates flood resilience and sustainable drainage measures, including runoff reduction, to mitigate flood risk without significant environmental impact.

Despite the site being close to the Swale Lakes SSSI and native hedgerow habitat, no high-risk impact on protected areas or species is expected.

No increase in traffic is expected due to the unchanged student and staff numbers.

Local roads are deemed capable of handling school-related traffic.

No significant cumulative environmental impacts have been identified, even with nearby developments.