Approval Recommended for Sports Hub Project at Former Quarry

A proposal to convert a disused quarry in Staffordshire into a sports hub has received a recommendation for approval. The development would feature seven pitches, one of which is a 3G pitch, along with a sports pavilion and spectator stands, to be constructed at the former Uttoxeter Quarry site, pending approval from East Staffordshire Borough Council on Tuesday. Staffordshire County Football Association (FA) lodged the planning application, stating its objective to address the local demand for sports facilities. Additionally, the project encompasses a 200-space car park equipped with electric vehicle charging points. Previously, highways officers from Staffordshire County Council voiced concerns regarding the proposal. Their objection cited sustainability issues, specifically highlighting the absence of pedestrian or cycling access routes to the location. However, a report from East Staffordshire Borough Council’s planning department concluded that, overall, the development aligns with the council’s planning policies. The report stated: “The proposal provides football pitches where there is an identified need and provides a dedicated facility for football, freeing up other playing pitches in and around Uttoxeter for other sports.” Operational hours for the sports hub are scheduled to be from 09:00 to 23:00 Monday through Friday, 08:00 to 21:00 on Saturday, and 08:00 to 19:00 on Sunday, as required. The council’s planning committee is scheduled to make a determination on the plans during its meeting on Tuesday. This development represents the initial phase of a broader regeneration initiative for the Aggregate Industries quarry site located in Uttoxeter. Information for this report was compiled by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which reports on local councils and public service entities. For further updates, follow BBC Stoke & Staffordshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for content on external websites. Details on our external linking policy are available.