A disused former bank site in Hampton Hill will be turned into a school after Richmond’s planning committee voted against officer recommendations and unanimously approved proposals.

The plans by Jack and Jill School to convert Clarence House in High Street for education were initially rejected by officers on the grounds of a lack of parking spaces and the risk of increased congestion from traffic.

But committee members approved the school on the condition that a financial penalty be put in place should it not comply with council policies.

Speaking at the meeting on Wednesday, September 30, was Hampton Hill’s town centre manager Isolde O’Kane, who said having a school in the road would add balance to the area and increase High Street’s footfall.

She said businesses including pubs, restaurants and charity shops had written letters in support of the school and two organisations had offered parking spaces.

Richmond and Twickenham Times:

Jack and Jill School's Sean Ventham, Cara Ventham, Jennifer Edwards, Christian Leigh, Karen Papirnik, Amber Rahman celebrating the decision

Ms O’Kane said: “The school is clearly committed to becoming part of the local community and supporting local businesses in Hampton Hill.”

Jack and Jill nursery and prep school was founded in Hampton’s Nightingale Road more than 65 years ago and also has a site in Twickenham’s First Cross Road for its reception and nursery.

Councillor Clare Head said she was sure the school would make an effort to ensure staff used sustainable transport.

A “park and stride” scheme was suggested in order to ease traffic congestion.

Councillor Martin Elengorn said: “It is up to the applicant to justify the trust we are putting in them because we are going against the recommendation of the officer.”

Jack and Jill’s principal, Karen Paparnik, said she was delighted with the decision and was also overwhelmed by the support from Hampton Hill’s community.

She said: “We are looking forward to bringing a wonderful landmark building back to life.”