Sports club gets go-ahead for new artificial pitch

A sports club is set to expand its community facilities after being given permission for a new artificial pitch.

The Hunslet Club in Leeds will fit a 3G all-weather pitch, along with floodlighting and fencing, after the council approved the plan.

The artificial surface will replace two existing grass pitches at the Hillidge Road club, a not-for-profit youth organisation with more than 3,400 members.

A planning report seen by Leeds councillors said 3G football pitches could be used for 80 hours of play per week, compared to around six hours on grass.

The report stated: “The proposal will provide very significant social benefits for the recreational value of the green space by offering the opportunity for increased pitch use.”

Leeds City Council received 12 letters in support of the planning application from people who were in favour of the upgrade of facilities.

One letter of objection was received, which was on environmental grounds, the report said.

The objector said the material used to make 3G pitches was not recyclable and there could be light pollution from the floodlights.

But council planners said they were satisfied the scheme would not harm the surrounding area, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

The planning report said: "These benefits have received praise from representation letters in support."

The club, which was founded in 1940 and which is an official partner of Leeds United, said the new pitch would help the development of women's and girls’ football.

A design report said: “The synthetic pitch will help to raise the standard of play and training opportunities within the local area, as well as hopefully enhancing individuals' enjoyment of sport.”

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