Cricket club goes in to bat to secure new practice facilities (From Keighley News)

Cricket club goes in to bat to secure new practice facilities

8:00am Friday 28th December 2012 in News

Councillors have discussed an application to build practice facilities at Oxenhope Cricket Club in Hebden Bridge Road.

Club committee member, Howard Smith, delivered a presentation to Oxenhope Parish Council at its December meeting.

“Practice is vital if the club is to progress,” he said. “We need excellent facilities to do proper coaching. When completed, these will also be available for the school and other youth community groups.”

He added he had spoken to two of the residents who lived closest to the site, and said they were very supportive of the plans. The club currently runs five junior cricket teams.

Coun Derrick Hopkinson, who is chairman of the club, declared an interest in the item, so did not take part in the debate on December 12.

None of his colleagues raised any objections to the plans, which will be decided by Bradford Council.

If approved, the facilities would be located on a site next to the northern boundary of the club’s cricket field.

A statement accompanying the application said: “The current practice arrangements on the existing cricket square and outfield are not sustainable. This scheme involves major capital investment, but is seen as a priority in club development terms.”