September 6, 2018 3.20 pm This story is over 66 months old

Decision expected on Lincoln leisure centre football pitches

After a brief delay, the new sports pitches are back on the cards
Another image of what the pitches could look like. Photo: City of Lincoln Council

Approval is expected for two football pitches at leisure centres in Lincoln after a delay in making a decision.

The plans would see the pitches set up at Yarborough Leisure Centre, Riseholme Road, and Birchwood Leisure Centre, Birchwood Avenue.

City of Lincoln Council lodged the applications in an effort to improve sporting facilities in the city.

A decision was expected on the applications in July, however the city council delayed the decision in order to carry out further consultation with Sport England.

Sport England had lodged an objection over the long-term viability of the two pitches due to other facilities nearby.

The organisation also raised concern over whether people could play rugby or cricket on the pitches.

It said that the facility should be designed so that other sports are not excluded, particularly at Yarborough.

However, following further consultation, Sport England have since withdrawn their opposition to the plans.

Site plan for the pitch at Birchwood Leisure Centre.

Now, members of the authority’s planning committee will discuss the plans at a meeting on September 12.

The applications seek to install artificial pitches at both sites which would provide football training and playing space.

The city council hopes the plans will help to increase use of the pitch by local schools, junior and youth football clubs, as well as community groups.

Further proposals would see fencing and the installation of floodlights around the perimeter of the pitches.

The Yarborough Leisure Centre pitch site.

Surfacing Standards Limited is carrying out the application on behalf of the city council.

The company said that the artificial pitch will be more durable and provide a better playing surface  for winter conditions.

Assistant Director for Health and Environment Services at City of Lincoln Council, Simon Colburn, said previously: “As part of the council’s commitment to promoting healthy, active lifestyles in Lincoln, we are excited to be working on two great improvements at our leisure centres.

“The new artificial pitches will allow players of all ages to enjoy football all-year-round, and the new running track at Yarborough Leisure Centre will ensure the local athletic stars of the future can train in the best possible environment.”