A controversial plan to install a sports pitch has re-emerged at an elite Ascot school in light of the recent news of a royal attendance.
In September 2022, it has been confirmed that Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis will be attending the famous Lambrook School.
Although plans were scrapped in 2021 due to objections, a new application is now in progress for the installation of a synthetic pitch and associated 3.8-metre-high boundary fencing.
The provision of a drainage pond and associate wildlife area including levelling works has also been proposed.
This recent application was validated on June 21 2022 and is pending consideration.
In 2021 Lambrook School had planned to build a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), netball court and a car park on its field immediately to the east of Cricketer’s Lane in Winkfield Row.
However due to intense pressure and objections over flooding the plans were withdrawn.
The planning application from Lambrook School states: “There is an established and significant need at the School for an additional AstroTurf pitch to accommodate hockey practice and matches.
“The proposed site of the new AstroTurf pitch is an under‐utilised resource on the school site. Drainage and level issues prevent its formal use as playing pitches.
“The proposed development will significantly enhance the quality and quantity of pitch provision at the school, resolving drainage issues and providing a surface that can be utilised year round, entirely fitting with the aims of National planning Policy Guidance and Local Plan policies.”
Since the previous plans were withdrawn, consultations with Sports England and other authorities have been had about the suitability of the land.
Sports England has concluded that due to a high demand for hockey and other sports in the school, an Astroturf pitch would be specifically designed to meet the needs of the children.
In a letter on August 4 Sports England said: “It will provide a level playing surface, that will be well drained. The drainage area being provided is necessary for the enhancement, to create a well‐ drained Astroturf pitch and as such the use of that part of the site directly facilitates the provision of the enhanced facility.
The community use proposed in the previous application has been removed due to neighbour objections and site unsuitability.
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