PLANS have been lodged to change the use of land near Ysgol Bro Hyddgen in Machynlleth, to create a new sports pitch.

Powys County Council has received an application from Heart of Wales Property Services, seeking to transform the fields north of the school, into a sports pitch that could play host to rugby.

A design and access statement submitted on behalf of the applicants by Churchman Thornhill Finch, states: “The playing fields would be for general recreation and sporting use.

“The site is characterised as marshy grassland with a post and wire perimeter fence.

“It is located to the north of the existing Bro Hyddgen secondary school and is bound by a public footpath to the southern boundary.

County Times:

“There is a drainage ditch which runs along the northern boundary which forms part of a network of ditches which along with the brook, flow westwards towards the River Dyfi.

“The eastern boundary of the site is currently open as the playing fields will be separated from the eastern portion of the existing field by a new hedge.

“There are existing residential properties to the east of the site.”

The statement adds: “New access for pedestrians, emergency and maintenance vehicles will be required.

“There is some existing tree screening to neighbouring properties which is proposed to be enhanced.”

The applicants also state the pitch dimensions for the proposed rugby pitch will be in line with Welsh Rugby and RFU guidance for the minimum senior pitch size, including run-off zones and dead-ball zones.

It adds: “After testing the site’s capacity , the maximum size the site can accommodate is a total pitch size of 116 metres length x 78 metres width which is acceptable for Welsh Club Rugby.

“A pedestrian gate will be introduced to the existing post and wire fence on the southern boundary. It is proposed that this will be lockable.

“The proposal comprises improvements to existing ground to facilitate better drainage of the fields.”

Powys County Council’ planners will make a decision on the application at a future date. The application can be viewed in full on the council’s website.