In August of 2023, Dukes Education submitted a proposal to to change the use of a gym in Belsize Park Gardens for educational use instead.
The request was put together with various external alterations including new window openings, the demolition and rebuilding of an eastern party wall, and the addition of new rooflights, PV panels, and roof plants.
The purpose of this renovation is to expand the facilities of the Fine Arts College, an independent school that specializes in Arts and Humanities. The proposal anticipates an eventual increase in the total number of students at the college increasing from 240 students to 400 students. As a result, Dukes Education has requested for “a condition that restricts opening hours of the school between 08:00 and 19:30 on weekdays, with no weekend access”.
Local groups in the community are pleased with the time restrictions. However, The Belsize Conservation Advisory Committee have concerns about the proposed mechanical plant on the roof, which must not inconvenience neighbours in Lancaster Stables. Apart from noise and pollution concerns, they’ve remarked “the building has been vacant and an eyesore for several years, it would be good to bring it back into use”.
Camden Council planning committee has voted to grant conditional planning permission, but no further action has been taken.
