New Forest National Park Authority approves plans for upgraded clubhouse and changing rooms at Lyndhurst Football Club

A NEW Forest football club has netted planning permission for an improved clubhouse from the national park authority.

Landowner Lyndhurst Parish Council made the application for the replacement sports building at Wellands Road which is used by the village football team.

A report to the NPA’s planning committee explained Lyndhurst Football Club, which was established in 1885 and has been based at its current location since 1953, uses two dilapidated, timber buildings for its clubhouse and changing rooms.

The replacement L-shaped building, of brick and slate construction, would include upgraded facilities including a kitchen, office, storage areas and publicly accessible toilet.

The report adds: “The proposed development is required in order to update the facilities of the football club, replacing the existing deteriorating changing rooms and club building to enable them to meet the higher standards required to remain in the league in which the team now play.”

The application drew seven objections from locals who felt the size of the new building was excessive and could result in additional events taking place, such as meetings and parties, which would cause noise and disturbance.

Other concerns included the impact to wildlife, the loss of light to nearby properties, and fears of anti-social behaviour and flytipping.

Nine letters of support praised the “long overdue” renovation, which would help the club to “grow and flourish”, and pointed out the lack of existing toilet facilities had previously resulted in “unsanitary practices”.

Recommending members approve the application, the report concluded: “The proposed development is appropriate to its proposed function and would not result in an unacceptable increase in the level of activity on the site.

“It can be accommodated on the site without undue impact on the character and appearance of the surrounding area or setting of the conservation area, neighbour amenity or areas of ecological sensitivity.”

NPA member Ann Sevier backed the plans and said the upgrade was needed, adding: “As a national park we are supposed to be here to help support communities and activities.”

Joe Reilly also supported the plans, which he called “a great initiative for the area”.

Members voted unanimously in favour.

Speaking afterwards, parish council chairman Cllr Chris Willsher told the A&T: “Needless to say we are delighted to have secured approval. Now the hard work starts because we have to raise a huge amount of money!”

The new building is expected to cost between £750,000 and £1m to build and furnish. The parish council will be working with the football club to secure grants and funding, as well as fundraising.