A LEGAL agreement outlining the development plans for Lymm Rugby Club has been altered to help to secure the financial stability of the project.

Earlier this year, ambitious blueprints to build a new clubhouse were unveiled and agreed by planning chiefs – despite fears over damage to the green belt and parking.

This includes new tennis courts, 3G pitch, squash courts and changing rooms as well as plans to transform the existing clubhouse into four homes, with a further 10 also to be built on the site.

It was also outlined how the new facility would help to inspire the next generation of sportsmen and women.

Councillors approved the application in February subject to the signing of a section 106 agreement.

But during the development management committee meeting last Wednesday, August 9, councillors were informed that the sports club were seeking a number of changes to the contract.

It was expected to be agreed that the commercial elements of the development would only be carried out once the community benefits had been delivered.

For example, the houses could not be occupied until the clubhouse had been completed in its entirety.

But it has since been revealed that the development of the new clubhouse requires substantial investment.

While funding is available from a number of different sources, this is insufficient to fund the entire development.

The residential development would generate capital to fund the new clubhouse.

Cllr Joan Grime (Culcheth, Glazebury and Croft - LAB) said while it is a risk to allow the changes to the section 106 agreement, she agreed it was an ‘acceptable risk’ and one worth taking.

Cllr Bob Barr (Lymm North and Thelwall - LD) also voiced his support for the plans, adding that it would be facility that would benefit the wider community.

Sheila Woodyatt (Lymm South - Con) added: “I don’t have any problems with this. I think Cllr Barr, who is very articulate, explained this very clearly.

“It is an excellent facility with even more benefits.”

Councillors voted to approve the changes to the section 106 agreement during the Town Hall meeting.