COUNCILLORS are set to make a decision on plans to turn a hockey pitch which is in a ‘poor condition’ into a 3G pitch at Culcheth High School.

An application for the replacement of the existing hockey pitch 2G Astro Turf surface with a 3G Astro Turf surface will come before the development management committee at its meeting tomorrow, Thursday.

It is being recommended for approval, subject to conditions, with delegated authority given to the development manager to make non-material changes to planning conditions and reasons as may be necessary prior to the issue of the decision.

As stated in the report to the committee, Sport England is a statutory consultee on this type of application and therefore if, members of the committee resolve to support the recommendation made by officers, the resolution would be subject to referral to the secretary of state for housing, communities and local government, and the secretary of state not wishing to intervene.

The report says the applicant contends that the pitch is currently in a ‘poor condition and is often water-logged, which impedes play’.

“The supporting statement advises that the old surface will be removed and the new 3G carpet laid on top of the current shock pads and underlying structure,” it adds.

“The current pitch would not be changed in shape or size, however, the proposed new surface type will alter the type of sports which can be played on the pitch in the future.

“It will increase local pitch capacity for football and rugby training, as well as providing the preferred surface for PE curriculum delivery for Culcheth High School.

“There will be no change to the existing floodlighting or fencing around the pitch.

“It is considered that the benefits of the continued, alternative sports provision and continued curriculum delivery outweigh the loss of the existing hockey provision.”