BY John Elworthy A BRIGHT blue steel framed smoking shelter proposed for a working men s club could never be used for its intended purpose as two thirds of the building is enclosed. The structure does not meet the requirements of the smoke free legislat

BY John Elworthy

A BRIGHT blue steel framed smoking shelter proposed for a working men's club could never be used for its intended purpose as two thirds of the building is enclosed.

"The structure does not meet the requirements of the smoke free legislation" warned Kathryn Brown, a planning officer for Fenland District Council.

In a damning assessment prepared for next week's planning committee she says the shelter has the appearance "more akin to a cycle/bus shelter."

Her report is likely to scupper the proposed shelter for Chatteris Working Men's Club in Station Street which would have been refused permission by officers had not the town council raised no objection to it.

"The application is before the committee due to the views of the town council being contrary to officer recommendation," she says.

Police also claim the shelter could not be properly supervised and could easily be used by youths as a gathering area "and lead to possible anti social behaviour and conflict with members of the club."

Ms Brown says the shelter falls within the Chatteris conversation area and would have an adverse impact on the setting of nearby listed buildings.

The shelter measures 2.7 metres in depth and 6.4 metres in length with a maximum height of 2.6 metres.

The proposed shelter is of a steel frame with translucent plastic sheeting to the roof and walls with some areas open.

"The overall design and materials will not be compatible or sympathetic with the existing building and surrounding area," says Ms Brown.

She said the applicants had been advised of the council's concerns and suggested they consider alternative locations.

"In response the applicant has not amended the scheme and has requested a three year temporary permission," she says. "The council considers such a solution would be inappropriate and unacceptable.