A LONG-AWAITED £1.57 million canteen block for Caterham's de Stafford School hangs in the balance this week after falling foul of planners.
The current "eyesore" block at the school in Burntwood Lane is damp and rotting, and the school has been trying for almost a decade to clinch funding for a replacement.
Joy finally came in June when the money was granted by Surrey County Council, but the scheme received a setback on Thursday when Tandridge District Council officers raised a formal objection.
Chief planning officer Piers Mason said although the site was in the green belt, the scheme was "acceptable" and respected the character of the area.
But he said an objection should be made because the development would result in the loss of several mature trees. The ultimate decision rests with the county council's planning and regulatory committee.
The eight-month construction project, which had been earmarked to start in March, would provide a new dining hall, modern kitchens, landscaped grounds and play area.
School business manager Sheila Bennett said the new facilities would be versatile, hosting assemblies, sports events, and community activities including social events and weddings.
She added: "The old canteen block is the one thing that detracts from all the good things at the school. Its replacement will be a really impressive new building, with the mainly glass design giving lovely views over the playing fields.
"It will give a boost to the whole school."