New shared sports stadium at Borough Park, Workington

What was proposed

The application sought full permission for a new stadium and outline permission for future stand extensions and associated facilities.

“Full Permission for the Comprehensive Development of a New Stadium (Phase 1) comprising New Stands (Sui Generis) and Associated Areas including Retail and Hospitality Areas (Class E), Function Suite, Changing Rooms and Supporting Facilities along with all Associated Works including Revised Access, Parking and Landscaping.”

“Outline Permission (with All Matters Reserved) for Extensions to the North, South, East and West Stands of the New Stadium (Phase 2), including Additional Spectator Seating, Terraces and Associated Facilities.”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The development would reuse the 2.02-hectare Borough Park football ground, near residential areas, the town centre, public transport and the River Derwent.

“The proposed development would be located on the existing/previously developed Borough Park football ground, Workington. The Site which is approximately 2.02 hectares in size, is well connected to surrounding residential areas and the town centre. There are numerous bus routes which operate in the locality and Workington railway station is within an approximate 10 minute walk from the Site.”

“The Site is predominantly flat, low-lying land with a landscaping bund adjacent to the northern boundary, beyond which lies the River Derwent. To the east is Lonsdale Park, an area of open space that was formerly a football, greyhound and motorcycle racing stadium. To the west on the opposite side of the A597 is a Tesco Superstore. Adjacent to this and further west is Derwent Park, the stadium ground of Workington Town Rugby League Club.”

Officer report

What consultees and residents said

The town council and consultees raised no objections, while one comment asked where staff would park; the response clarified match-day parking arrangements.

“No objection. . Ward Councillor Councillor Barbara Cannon (St. Michael’s ward) no comments received. Highways/Lead Local Flood Authority Local Highway Authority comments (LHA)- No objections.”

“Once again the staff find out about what is happening in Cumberland via the newspapers. We notice that the car park in Allerdale House is proposed to be a community pitch, where are staff parking or is it on a first come basis and the rest can park in the multi story and walk…”

Officer report

Who spoke

The agent spoke in support of the application.

What members discussed

Members discussed accessible women’s facilities, biodiversity off-site units, solar-panel battery storage and electric-vehicle charging provision.

“A Member commented that they hoped adequate facilities for women would be incorporated into the design. In response the Agent advised Members that they have to follow stringent regulations within the design and that facilities would be completely accessible.”

“A Member asked if the solar panels would be linked to battery storage on site and if there were any provisions for EV charging. In response the Agent stated that there was no battery storage proposed and in regard to the EV charging there would be a temporary area of parking within the first phase, the car park would be placed on the south side and there was no requirement for EV parking.”

Minutes

The vote

A motion to accept the officer recommendation was seconded and agreed unanimously.

“Following consideration of the application a Member moved to accept the Officer’s recommendation, this was seconded.”

“A vote was taken and it was unanimously agreed.”

Minutes

The decision

The application was approved with the listed conditions and delegated authority to finalise condition amendments and the legal agreement.

“RESOLVED – That the application be approved subject to the conditions set out below with delegated authority being given to the Service Manager for Development and Implementation to add to and/or make any amendments to the conditions as considered appropriate and delegated authority to agree the final terms and conditions of the legal agreement as per the recommendation.”

Minutes