Previously refused plans for a multi-purpose ‘air dome’ at South Craven School are to be re-submitted.

The Cross Hills school wants to site the facility on land to the east of its sports hall, and says the 1,980 square metres of extra floor space created would enable South Craven to enhance and increase its sports provision.

An earlier application for the dome was rejected last September by Craven District Council planning officers, who concluded that while the structure would bring benefits to the school, it would also harm neighbouring amenities.

At the time, South Craven’s headteacher, Dr Andrew Cummings, said the refusal was not a problem, as the application could be re-submitted following the completion of a couple of assessments. Work on the dome had not been planned to start until this spring.

A South Craven spokesman this week said: “The air dome will provide space for a selection of pitches – three tennis courts, two five a-side football pitches or two netball courts.

“It would ensure students would be able to enjoy sports all year round, and not be restricted by bad weather.

“It would also mean primary pupils from our local partner schools, where indoor facilities are limited, would be able to use the space.

“As an ‘outstanding’ school, we are keen to continue to deliver the very best educational and social facilities for our students and the wider community, and believe this new construction will enable us to continue to deliver high-quality education.

“We would also like to encourage greater use of facilities by the community. We are in talks with Pro Coach, the coaching arm of Yorkshire Cricket Club, about upgrading our sports hall to make it into a cricket centre, as well as investing in more spinning and gym equipment.”

The school says the air dome would be made of a highly resilient fabric, which is light, strong, easily repairable and fire-proof.

It added it is keen to minimise any negative impact on the nearby community, and is urging local residents to contact Craven District planning office if they are willing to back the school’s new venture.