Old Brodleians RUFC’s request for outline planning permission for 50 residences on its least-used pitch has been met with a statutory objection from Sports England.
Unless projects fall under one of five exceptions, its objective is to oppose the granting of planning permission for any development that would result in the loss of a level playing field.
Sports England has said it would review the objection, with a view to considering potentially withdrawing it, if the rugby club can provide a mitigation package securing an equivalent or better replacement playing field as well as more information about an artificial grass pitch being proposed as part of a package of improvements at the club.
As reported by the Courier, Old Brodleians RUFC is hoping to secure planning permission for the homes on the pitch on the other side of Denholmegate Road in Hipperholme to the club house and other pitches.
By obtaining the permission, the club hopes to attract a buyer for the land and use the sale money to fund a range of improvements at the club, also being applied for as part of the planning application.
These include overhauling the current changing rooms and showers, increasing the size of the clubhouse and introducing a new floodlit artificial pitch.
The plans have attracted hundreds of public comments – 123 in objection and 422 in support.
Those objecting include one which said: “Although I am supportive of the amenities and opportunities that the Old Brodleians Rugby Club provides, I strongly object to the selling of a green belt playing field to fund the club’s expansion.
“I strongly agree with the many objections already so eloquently made by others regarding traffic and parking issues, local infrastructure, loss of green belt and the need for the council to prioritise brownfield sites for future housing.”
One of those who has commented in support of the plans said: “The club currently provides much more than just rugby training and matches, and provides facilities which are not matched in the local area.
“This includes providing a site for local schools to run cross country, half-term activities for families, pitches for football and both a running and cycling club.
“Any upgrades to the facilities which comes from the sale of the field, will benefit a wide range of people in the local community, especially for the health and fitness of young people.”
Old Brodleians will turn 100 in 2030, and has outlined a “centenary vision” for its future.
The club says playing numbers are at an “all time high” and it is regularly turning away others that want to use the site, so now is the time to invest and enhance its grounds.
“The development will contribute towards the provision of much needed homes in Calderdale, where there has been under-delivery of housing,” according to a planning statement included with the application.
Calderdale Council will now review the application after the public consultation period closed.
