Decision details

The Committee received an application for full planning permission.

The application sought approval for the construction of two artificial grass pitches (AGPs), installation of floodlighting to both pitches, replacement fencing to existing pitch, extension of balcony on western elevation of the pavilion, insertion of two sets of doors on north elevation of pavilion, replacement of pitched roof with flat roof on scorer's hut, construction of an electrical substation, car and cycle parking and associated landscaping and drainage works.

The Committee noted the amendment sheet.

An error regarding the nature of Cambridge Past, Present and Future’s representation was noted.

The Committee received a representation in objection to the application from a nearby resident.

The representation covered the following issues:

     i.        Spoke on behalf of herself, and other residents the development would impact on.

    ii.        Residents did not object to the extension of sports provision. However, they objected to the increased lighting.

   iii.        Site had a long planning history and previous lighting applications had been rejected.

  iv.        Welcomed the comments regarding the impact on Coton footpath.

   v.        From October to March residents would experience no natural dusk.

  vi.        The provision of additional pitches should mean that additional floodlight hours are not needed.

 vii.        Aspect of open space would be lost.

viii.        Horizon views were important.

Karen Pearce, Assistant Director of Sport at the University of Cambridge and Tim Ireland of Cambridge City Hockey Club, addressed the Committee in support of the application.

Councillor Nethsingha proposed an amendment to condition 16 of the Officer’s recommendation that the existing permitted lighting hours be retained.

This amendment was lost by 3 votes to 2.

The Committee:

Resolved (by 5 votes to 2) to grant the application for planning permission in accordance with the officer recommendation, for the reasons set out in the officer report, and subject to the conditions recommended by the officers and subject to the amendments above. Conditions 17 and 19 are deleted, and renumber 18 and 20-26 accordingly)