Extended artificial grass pitch at Hayden Youth Association, Wilmington, Dartford

“(12) Planning permission is sought for the refurbishment and extension of an existing 3G Artificial Grass Pitch (AGP) with perimeter fencing, hardstanding areas, storage container, floodlights, an access footpath and associated bund.”

“(15) The proposed fencing consists of a 4.5-metre high fence (steel mesh) to enclose the proposed pitch, storage areas and spectator area; and a 1.2-metre high (steel mesh) 'pitch perimeter fence' is proposed along part of east side of the pitch to separate it from the adjacent spectator area. As shown on the 'Proposed Site Plan' some re- profiling of the ground would be required to create the pitch, which would have a very slight fall in levels from south to north.”

“(98) The acceptability of the development has been assessed above in terms of Green Belt policy, implications for residential amenity (notably with respect to light pollution and noise disturbance), highway safety and convenience, biodiversity net gain, trees, drainage, flood risk, contamination and the proximity/impact on the gas pipeline. In each regard, the development is considered to be acceptable.”

“(100) I conclude that the development is acceptable and compliant with the NPPF and the relevant policies of the Dartford Local Plan to 2037 and I recommend that planning permission be granted.”

“(42) I consider that the key issues in this case are (i) the impacts of the proposal on the openness of the Green Belt & Borough Open Space; (ii) the impact of the proposal on surrounding residents in terms of lighting, noise and general disturbance from activity; (iii) biodiversity & ecology; and (iv) the potential for intensification of use resulting in additional traffic movements and overspill car parking on the surrounding roads.”

“(30) Environmental Health colleagues have considered the application and raise no objection to it. With respect to noise implications, the submitted Noise Management Plan is noted and considered to be adequate; there should be monitoring post- implementation to check that suggested noise levels are complied with. It is also noted that there is no guarantee that the suggested noise level (50 dBA 1 hour at 1 metre from residential boundaries) will not be exceeded.”

“Whilst having no objection in principle to the proposed refurbishment and extension of a 3G Artificial Grass Pitch the Parish Council has concerns that there may be an adverse impact on the quality of life for the residents of the neighbouring properties by reason of possible noise and light pollution and increased traffic movement and parking pressures on the local road network.”

“The Chairman moved a motion to support the officer’s recommendation to grant planning permission. The motion was seconded, put to a vote and carried.”

“That delegated authority is given to the Development Manager to grant planning permission subject to no objection being received from Sport England and to include any additional necessary conditions that might be recommended by Sport England.”