Sport England objects to park revamp

The government may have to make the final call on plans for a major overhaul of a park after an objection from Sport England.

The organisation, which exists to promote sport and physical activity, has raised concerns over the proposed £3.2m revamp of Waverley Park in Preston.

Preston City Council revealed its vision for the green space late last year which included the replacement of the park's three football pitches, a rebuild of its skate park, the creation of a new 'pump track' for cyclists and a new pavilion.

However Sport England has objected to the plans as they include a footpath and wildflower area which the body says could be used for sport pitches.

The city council is attempting to amend its plans and relocate the footpath and wildflower beds in order to overcome the opposition.

If Sport England was to remain dissatisfied, the planning application would have to be referred to the local government secretary and Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner for a decision, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The matter had been due to be determined by the council's planning committee last week.

Planning officers had recommended it be approved if the Sport England objection could be satisfactorily addressed, and handed over to the government if not.

However, the item was instead deferred until the requested revisions could be drawn up and sent back to the organisation for assessment.

The application will return to the planning committee, which is independent of the council, as the applicant, at a later date.

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