Multi-use games area at Former Swimming Pool Site, Mildenhall

What was proposed

The applications proposed a multi-use games area with lighting, landscaping, hardstanding, a link path and seven non-illuminated advertising banners.

“Proposal: Planning application - one multi-use games area/playzone with associated lighting, landscaping, hardstanding and link path…”

“Planning permission is sought for a multi-use games area (MUGA)/play zone at the former swimming pool site in Mildenhall. The proposal incorporates lighting, landscaping and hardstanding to link the development with the existing footpath.”

Officer report

The site

The site was vacant council-owned grassland within Mildenhall’s settlement and town-centre boundaries, near sports, play, social and transport facilities.

“The application site is located within the settlement boundary of Mildenhall, accessed from Recreation Way. The site currently comprises vacant land owned by West Suffolk Council, which previously housed a building accommodating a swimming pool. The building has since been demolished and the land returned to its former state of grassland, appearing to be linked with the historic bowling green.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

The town council supported the applications but raised concerns, while highways had no objections and environmental consultees supported approval subject to conditions.

“Private Sector Housing and Environmental Health No objections subject to conditions in relation to hours of operation, submission of a noise management plan and lighting.”

“Ecologist No objections subject to conditions in relation to a landscape and environmental management plan and a lighting scheme.”

Officer report

Public comments

No neighbour representations were received, while the town council raised concerns about parking, traffic, lighting, toilets, fencing and land ownership.

“Town Council Supports the concept of a PlayZone but raises some concerns in relation to parking and traffic, fence height, impact of lighting, use of the land, mitigation measures in relation to toilet facilities and clarification that the land is owned by WSC.”

Officer report

Who spoke

A ward member supported the application and asked about fencing and the entrance, while officers explained the proposed booking system and members asked questions.

The decision

“Decision Advertisement consent be APPROVED subject to the following conditions: 1. Time limit This consent shall expire at the end of a period of 5 years beginning with the date of this notice. 2. Approved plans The development hereby permitted shall not be carried out except in complete accordance with the details shown on the approved plans and documents.”

Minutes, 6 Aug 2025