Floodlit sports pitches at Princes Risborough School, Princes Risborough

What was proposed

The application proposed a full-size synthetic pitch, a replacement MUGA, floodlighting, fencing and three bunds for school and community use.

“Summary & Recommendation/ Reason for Planning Committee Consideration 1.1 The proposal is for the creation of a 3G synthetic playing pitch and the replacement of the existing Multi-use Games Area (MUGA) within the grounds of Princes Risborough School. It is proposed that both the new pitch and the MUGA would be floodlit and would be available for use at evening and weekends for community use.”

“It would have a hard surface and is proposed principally for netball and tennis. The layout shows the provision of three courts. To the south west of the MUGA a new 3G artificial grass pitch (AGP) is proposed measuring 97 x 61 metres. The pitch would be lit by six 15m high floodlight columns. The pitch would have a goal recess at each end (3 x . 12.5m) and a spectator area on the north west side, measuring 3 x 75m.”

Officer report

Consultees and local views

Sport England removed its objection after changes to the bunds, while the town council objected over traffic, noise and light pollution.

“Should officers be minded to approve the application I request that it be brought to planning committee for determination. Cllr Hall - Given the scope of this application please bring before the planning committee for determination.”

“Whilst acknowledging the benefits of this sporting facility for both the school and the wider area, as supported by the FA and LTC, the Council would wish to highlight particular concerns on the increased traffic, noise (both during construction and once in use) and light pollution for the residents in the local area of Merton and Clifford Road. Traffic generation and parking is already an issue in term time and this is likely to be exacerbated.”

Officer report

Who spoke

Ward members spoke, a person spoke in objection and a representative spoke on behalf of the applicant.

Committee discussion

Members held a full debate and considered an update before deciding the application.

“This application was the subject of a site visit.”

“Following a full debate, Members voted in favour of the motion to approve the application, in line with the officer’s recommendation, subject to the inclusion of alternative wording for Condition 8 to read:”

Minutes

The vote

Members voted for approval, following a motion proposed and seconded by councillors.

“It was proposed by Councillor A Collingwood and seconded by Councillor M Hind…”

Minutes

The decision

The application was approved in line with the officer recommendation, subject to alternative wording for Condition 8.

“Resolved: that the application be approved, in line with the officer’s recommendation, subject to the inclusion of alternative wording for Condition 8.”

Minutes