Culcheth High School in Warrington is on the verge of a major transformation that could revolutionize their sports facilities. The school’s hockey pitch, which is currently in poor condition, is set to undergo a significant upgrade to become a state-of-the-art 3G surface. This decision is pending approval from the development management committee, with the potential to enhance the sports offerings at the school and benefit the local community as a whole.
Plans for Transformation
The proposed project involves replacing the existing 2G Astro Turf surface on the hockey pitch with a more advanced 3G Astro Turf surface. This upgrade is not just a cosmetic change but a strategic move to address the current issues faced by the pitch. According to reports, the pitch is often waterlogged, making it difficult for students and athletes to play effectively. By installing a new 3G surface, the school aims to create a more conducive environment for sports activities and improve the overall quality of the pitch.
The application for this development will be reviewed by the development management committee in an upcoming meeting. If approved, the project will proceed with certain conditions in place to ensure the successful implementation of the new surface. The delegated authority given to the development manager allows for flexibility in making necessary changes to the planning conditions and reasons as required before finalizing the decision.
Support from Sport England
Sport England, a statutory consultee in matters related to sports facilities, has been consulted on the proposed plans for the hockey pitch at Culcheth High School. Their input and support are crucial in evaluating the potential benefits and impact of the project on the local sports community. If the committee members approve the recommendation put forth by the officers, the resolution will be subject to referral to the secretary of state for housing, communities, and local government for final approval.
The applicant for the project has highlighted the current state of the pitch, emphasizing its poor condition and frequent waterlogging issues. These challenges not only affect the quality of play but also limit the usability of the pitch for various sports activities. The proposed solution involves removing the old surface and laying down a new 3G carpet on top of the existing shock pads and underlying structure. This approach aims to retain the pitch’s shape and size while significantly enhancing its functionality and performance.
Benefits of the Upgrade
The decision to transform the hockey pitch into a 3G surface comes with a range of benefits for both the school and the local community. The new surface will not only improve the playing conditions for hockey but also expand the range of sports that can be accommodated on the pitch. With increased capacity for football and rugby training, the upgraded pitch will serve as a versatile sports facility that caters to a wider audience.
Moreover, the 3G surface will be the preferred choice for PE curriculum delivery at Culcheth High School. This means that students will have access to a modern and suitable playing surface for their physical education classes, enhancing their overall learning experience. The project aims to create a multi-functional space that supports various sports activities and promotes a healthy and active lifestyle among the students and the community at large.
Maintaining the existing floodlighting and fencing around the pitch ensures that the upgrade does not compromise the safety and security of the facility. By retaining these essential features, the school can continue to offer sports activities in a well-lit and protected environment. The decision to prioritize alternative sports provision and curriculum delivery over the loss of the existing hockey provision reflects a strategic approach to maximizing the benefits of the upgraded pitch.
In conclusion, the transformation of Culcheth High School’s hockey pitch into a 3G surface represents a significant step towards enhancing sports facilities and promoting physical activity in the local community. The proposed upgrade not only addresses the current challenges faced by the pitch but also creates new opportunities for sports participation and curriculum delivery. With the support of Sport England and the development management committee, this project has the potential to make a positive impact on the school’s sports program and benefit the students and residents of Culcheth.