Plans have been lodged to transform an agricultural field in St John into new public gardens and a car park for school staff.
The application, submitted on behalf of the Parish of St John, proposes redeveloping Field 371 to create what is described as a “community garden and small 23-space car park to the south-east of the site for school staff parking”.
According to the accompanying design statement, the field – currently used as pasture in the centre of St John’s Village – would be reshaped into a landscaped public space featuring gardens, a pavilion and a pétanque court, along with new planting and pathways.
The scheme also aims to address long-standing parking pressures in the area, particularly around St John’s School.
The design document notes that “currently the Parish encounters capacity issues” on nearby roads, with staff parking affecting road safety and sustainability.
Under the proposals, parking provision would be significantly reduced compared to a previously approved scheme, dropping from 57 spaces to 23, and dedicated specifically for school staff.
The new car park would be located in the south-east corner of the site and screened by trees and hedging.
The wider garden project has been shaped by public consultation, including parish meetings, questionnaires and presentations.
Feedback highlighted support for retaining the Cenotaph in its current position, introducing more planting, and creating facilities such as seating, a pétanque area and improved pedestrian access.
Designers say the aim is to create “an engaging community garden” that reflects local identity while improving access to open space.
The plans also include links to the green lane network and measures to encourage walking and cycling.
The full application is online.