Rugby Club move gets permission

Trowbridge Rugby Club has been given planning permission to move to Hilperton. A previous application had already been approved, but the impact of the credit crunch meant their plan to sell off the Green Lane ground for housing was less profitable than originally expected, so a revised, smaller, scheme came forward.

The new ground will go on the field opposite Paxcroft Farm. It includes a clubhouse, store, sports pitches with floodlighting and associated landscape bunding, access and parking.

The planning committee on October 24th agreed to support the application despite a recommendation from planners to refuse it. Wiltshire Council highways had wanted the scheme kicked out because of concerns about the safety of the junction with the A361 and the lack of a specific lane for traffic turning right into the ground. Agenda

The original scheme had included redesigning the A361 to allow room for such a lane. This was omitted from the current scheme - the club said it wasn't necessary and the £200,000 cost of the works would be disproportionate.

19 conditions were attached to the planning permission. If all goes according to plan the new facility will be operational for the 2013 season.

When the club move to Hilperton they'll be given free spelling lessons (see picture).

"On behalf of Trowbridge Rugby Club I would like to thank (councillors) for your support last night. I am confident the club will create a facility that will be a credit to the community. - Yours Sincerely - Mike James, President, Trowbridge RFC"