Issue - meetings

Conversion of the stadia pitch to a 3G Artificial Grass Pitch (AGP) with a 1.1-metre-high fence and replacement 158-seater stand to the eastern elevation of the stadia pitch.

Recommendations: Approval

RESOLVED: That the application be approved.

Conversion of the stadia pitch to a 3G Artificial Grass Pitch (AGP) with a 1.1 metre high fence and replacement 158 seater stand to the eastern elevation of the stadia pitch.

Officers introduced the application and highlighted the information in the addendum. It was noted that the current eastern stand was in poor condition at present and not fit for purpose. The replacement stand would be 60cm higher than the current one. The development was considered appropriate in Green Belt land and Sport England had raised no concerns. There would be no harm to residents, no increased flood risk, no increase in spectator capacity and no increase in trip generation. It was considered that the proposal would be beneficial to the community and the application was recommended for approval.

In response to questions from the Committee, it was confirmed that special circumstances did not apply in this case as the application would not result in any reduction in openness and was therefore considered to be appropriate development.

Members requested further information regarding the chemical components of the artificial turf noting reported possible links with cancer. Officers confirmed that a detailed contaminated land assessment had been undertaken and no concerns raised by the Contamination Officer in respect of the turf itself. Sport England, who were experts in the field, had also raised no objections.

Councillors welcomed the proposals and raised no further concerns. The officer’s recommendation was moved, seconded and, when put to a vote, agreed with five votes in favour and one abstention.

RESOLVED: That the application be approved, subject to the information in the addendum and the conditions set out in the officer’s report.