A proposal has been submitted for a new sports centre at Plumpton Racecourse.
On Wednesday (August 5), Lewes District Council’s planning committee is due to consider a bid to build an enclosed five-court padel facility on part of the site used as a driver training centre.
The application, from Hurstwood Sports Group Ltd, has been recommended for approval by council planning officers.
In a report to the committee they said: “In overall terms, the proposal would deliver sporting, recreational, community and economic benefits through the reuse and diversification of an existing commercial site within the established racecourse complex.
“Whilst concerns have been raised by local residents, specialist consultees have concluded that the identified impacts can be satisfactorily mitigated and controlled through planning conditions.”
Objectors raised concerns about noise; lighting; traffic generation; loss of race day parking; harm to residential amenity, ecology, impacts on horses and livestock; the site’s overall visual impact; countryside location; and the loss of the existing driver training use.
Planning officers said Environmental Protection reviewed the proposals, including its noise impact assessment and associated mitigation measures, and have raised no concerns.
The council received 25 objections to plans and 35 messages of support.
Supporters highlight its associated health and economic benefits.
The applicant says 12 jobs would be created once the facility is up and running.
The proposed sports centre would be an enclosed building containing five padel courts, spectator seating and office and storage space. It would have acoustic mitigation measures, low-level external lighting, landscaping and associated works.
For further information see application reference LW/26/0028 on the Lewes District Council website.
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