A SCHOOL in Holmes Chapel has submitted plans to build a new 3G sports pitch that will be available for the community to use.

Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School has submitted plans to Cheshire East Council to build a new all-weather facility on land to the west of the sports hall.

The proposals include a full size artificial football pitch to FIFA standard, three 5aside football pitches (marked width ways across main pitch), long/triple jump facility, eight floodlights, spectator area overlooking the pitch and direct access from the sports centre.

In the design statement Architects Gillespies said the school has created a masterplan for the future development of the campus and is seeking planning approval for the second phase of this masterplan, following on from the recent construction of the new Sixth Form block.

The report states: “The existing school playing fields are in poor condition due to difficult drainage and ground conditions which restrict the frequency that the pitches can be used, especially in the winter months.

“The new development will dramatically improve the physical education and teaching facilities of the school: The proposed location is on an existing sports field which is often water logged.

“Not only will the new facility benefit the school, but the 3G pitch is intended to be used for community use at evenings and weekends. This will provide a great asset for local residents, clubs and associations.”

The planning statement added that work was planned to take place during the school’s summer holidays.

“Construction is aiming to start on site during the school’s summer holidays to minimise disruption to teaching and reduce any potential risks,” it said.

“However, due to the length of time required for construction, it is likely to carry over into school term time.”

The pitch will be available exclusively for use by the school during the hours of 8:30am and 4pm.

The facility will then be made available for use by the public and sports clubs from 4pm until 9pm but with the potential to open until 10pm should the demand for the later booking be evident.

The statement added that the facility would also be available for community bookings from 9am until 7pm on Saturdays and from 10am until 7pm on Sundays.

What do you think about the plans? Leave a comment below or email the newsdesk at knutsford@guardiangrp.co.uk.