Plans given go ahead to install potentially life-saving equipment in Warwick
A new piece of potentially life-saving equipment is due to be installed in Warwick after plans were given the go ahead.
Earlier this year, a planning application was submitted by Warwick Rotary Club to Warwick District Council to install a defibrillator at number 1 and 2 Trinity Mews in Priory Road, which is home to The Queen’s Royal Hussars Museum.
The plans for the listed building also included retaining signage at museum, which included one for recruitment and one for disabled access.
In the planning documents it said: “There has been the need for a defibrillator in this area since the Traders in Smith Street campaigned in 2008 and this proposed location under the “Archway” is ideally suited.
“All of the shopkeepers in the lower end of Smith Street will be aware of its location.
“The Rotary Club of Warwick will be responsible for all costs in the installation and maintenance.”
It added: “The museum is part of the Warwick Military Heritage Trail and the proposed defibrillator and retention of signs will have no adverse effect upon this listed building.”
Several comments were made in support of the application, which highlighted the defibrillator would benefit the museum and the nearby businesses and that the signs will help people find the museum
One objection was also lodged against the signs, stating “Signs A and C obtrusively attack the setting of the adjacent listed building at 1 Priory Road and are inappropriate in the conservation area.”
At the end of July, the plans were given the go ahead via a delegated decision.
In the decision it said: “It is considered that the proposed works are acceptable, with the minor visual impact of the defibrillator outweighed by the public benefits offered by the item itself.
“The unit is to be located within an undercroft where it will remain visible but will not impact on the street facing elevations.
“The proposed signage is considered to have a neutral impact.
“The overall impact of the proposal on both the listed building and the conservation area is considered to be neutral.”
Speaking about the plans getting the green light, a spokesperson from Warwick Rotary Club said: “Andy Milton, curator at the Queen’s Royal Hussars Museum is delighted that planning approval has been given to install a 24/7 defibrillator outside the museum.
“When Andy contacted Warwick Town Council’s clerk, Jayne Topham for assistance, back in January, he was referred to Warwick Rotary Club.
“Secretary Jackie Crampton was aware that the Smith Street traders had previously raised funds for one prior to the Covid-19 pandemic and contacted them.
“Laurie Day at the Rotary Club obtained the planning approval, and now Maria Denney, formerly of the Golden Monkey Tea Shop, has sent the £1,200 collected.
They added: “The Rotary Club is making up the difference, and arranging its installation, and will donate it to the museum.
“The traders in Smith Street said they are delighted at last to have this life saving kit accessible in case of emergency.
"They are also looking forward to greeting the Mayor of Warwick, Cllr Simon Pargeter, who will be unveiling the defibrillator next month.”
An official date is yet to be announced for the installation and unveiling of the new defibrillator.