Controversial astroturf plan for beauty spot could still go ahead

Published on 11/02/2013 17:12

An independent school’s controversial plan to build an astroturf hockey pitch in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty could go ahead after an appeal was lodged with the Planning Inspectorate.

Berkhamsted School was denied permission for the Kitchener’s Field project last year after mass opposition from rural campaigners and people who live nearby.

But now the school has appealed against Dacorum Borough Council’s ruling.

The development – which would include an athletics track – has been opposed by the Castle Hill Residents Association, the Campaign to Protect Rural England and the Chilterns Conservation Board.

Only Brownlow Road lies between the place where the new sports facilities would be installed and historic Berkhamsted Castle.

But the school says the facilities would be in an area that is already used for sport and has three existing fenced tennis courts. The wider community would also be allowed to use the new facilities.

> What do you think? Phone hemeltoday reporter David O’Neill on 01442 898451.

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Controversial astroturf plan for beauty spot could still go ahead

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