AFC Bournemouth’s plans for a multi-million pound training complex have been approved by planners, subject to referral to the Secretary of State.

Members of Poole council’s planning committee voted unanimously in favour of the scheme at the 57-acre Canford Magna Golf Club.

They agreed that despite concerns over its Green Belt location, the development was not inappropriate as it will be providing an outdoor sporting activity.

They also accepted it would not have a greater impact than the former golf club, which closed last year.

The training complex, which was given the backing of Premier League chief Richard Scudamore this month, will bring the first team, development squad, academy and pre-academy training operations and facilities into one location.

It will feature first-class facilities including ten full-size pitches, three junior pitches, an indoor artificial playing surface, state-of-the-art medical, fitness, sports science and rehabilitation facilities, administrative space and a press conference theatre.

Ward councillor David Brown spoke at Thursday’s meeting to give his support to the scheme.

“On balance, the proposal has significant benefits for the community,” he said.

Cllr Elaine Atkinson said: “We have to look at this as another jewel in Poole’s crown under the name of Bournemouth.”

Cllr Marion Le Poidevin agreed, adding: “The irony isn’t lost on me that, yet again, Bournemouth is turning to Poole to fulfil its needs.”

AFC Bournemouth chief executive Neill Blake said he was “delighted” the plans had the approval of borough planners.

“A new training complex will be a huge step forward for the club, and we have endeavoured to propose one which is befitting of a Premier League club, while also providing the perfect environment – both sporting and educational – to develop youngsters in the area.”

He added: “It was important that we designed a facility that is sympathetic to the Green Belt site it is located on, and we believe this is something the whole region can be proud of.”