CONTROVERSIAL plans for a new hockey pitch, club house, lighting and perimeter fencing at a Keighley secondary school have again been recommended for approval.

The proposals for Holy Family Catholic School, in Spring Gardens Lane, had previously been deferred, but are due to return to Keighley & Shipley Area Planning Panel for a decision next Wednesday. (Feb 27)

The application was considered by the panel late last summer but councillors said they needed clarification on the type of pitch being proposed and more details on the floodlighting.

They expressed concern about the suggested 8am to 10pm hours of use for the pitch, and the impact this could have on neighbouring residents.

Last August, the council planning officer’s report on the application said the plans faced opposition in the form of 39 letters of objection, and a petition of objection signed by 53 people.

Opponents cited fears about light pollution, parking and traffic congestion, potential flooding and overlooking of nearby homes.

Since the deferral, the applicant has submitted additional details on the synthetic pitch, as well as information on how any light pollution from the floodlights will be minimised.

An amended condition of approval now states: “Use of the pitch for purposes of sport shall take place only during the hours of 8am to 9pm Monday to Friday, and from 9am to 6pm on Saturdays, Sundays, bank and public holidays.”