The proposed redevelopment of a football club’s pitch will prevent games from being cancelled due to flooding. Shildon Association Football Club has submitted plans for a new 3G artificial pitch to replace its current grass pitch at Dean Street.
If approved, the new pitch will improve the sporting and recreational facilities for the club and the wider community. New perimeter and high ball fencing is also planned to stop balls leaving the site.
A statement from Shildon AFC, submitted as part of the plans, read: “The proposed Artificial Grass Pitch will replace an existing grass football pitch with better quality provision, thereby providing access to greater quantity of provision in a suitable location.
“The proposal would give rise to a considerable benefit to the wider community through the provision of an enhanced playing facility and the opportunity for usage throughout the year.”
Several games are called off every season due to waterlogged pitches and poor drainage at the site.
The Railwaymen currently play in the Northern League Division One.
Praising the proposal, Shildon and Dene Valley county councillor Shirley Quinn welcomed the news. She said: “With the changing environmental factors, many games are currently cancelled and reorganised. This results in revenue loss for the club and reduced numbers watching the match as a consequence of time changes.
“I hope that work is being done in the wider community to allow the schools and amateur teams to use the pitch when not needed for team matches. This in turn raises the profile of the club and benefits the health and wellbeing of users.”
Durham County Council will consider the planning application in due course.
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