AN application to build an artificial football pitch at a sports ground has been approved.

BCP Council has approved an application to build a 3G football turf pitch on the Bournemouth University Sports Campus at Chapel Gate.

The site, located adjacent to Bournemouth Airport, is a 65-acre sports facility and the main playing venue for the university’s sports’ teams.

The new plans will see a 12,030 sq. metres pitch built on an area of the campus currently occupied by two grass football pitches.

It will comprise of 3G artificial grass, partially infilled with silica sand and SBR granules. According to the design and access statement, this surface type is recognised as the “most suitable artificial playing surface for community football and youth football development”.

Bournemouth Echo: Proposed site seen outlined in redProposed site seen outlined in red (Image: BCP planning portal)

Features including new high fencing, LED floodlights, and portable goals storage are also included in the proposal.

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The design and access statement reads: "The prime purpose of the Sports Campus will remain unaltered; facilitating sports competition, training, recreation, and leisure activities for the community groups, community sport, local teams, and clubs, including University sports teams. 

"The proposed 3G Football Turf Pitch (FTP) will accommodate enhanced and increased football activities and once implemented, the new facility will be appropriate in its location."