The Urmston Cricket and Lawn Tennis Club has recently obtained authorization for their proposal to install 12 floodlights to illuminate their tennis courts, allowing games to be played until 10pm during the autumn and winter seasons. This decision was made despite objections from nearby residents.
Initially, the club’s plan to illuminate three tennis courts was rejected by Trafford’s planning committee. However, a revised application for lighting on only two courts, using floodlights which automatically switch off at 10pm, was unanimously agreed upon. The managing director of nearby retirement block Albany Court (Urmston) Management Ltd expressed concerns about the potential noise and disturbance that the floodlights could cause to residents.
Despite the objections, the chairman of the club, Simon Allcroft, reassured the committee that there were no plans to convert the courts for other purposes and that the club would maintain its current facilities for its membership. During the discussion over the application, councillors sympathized with the residents, but ultimately agreed that the reduction in the number of floodlights from three to two courts was a positive move.
While there were 10 objection letters from nearby properties, there were 57 letters of support, citing the increase in club membership and the potential for the floodlights to attract even more members. Supporters also highlighted that the floodlights would allow the club to host competitive league matches, ultimately benefiting the community.
On the other hand, objectors pointed out that Albany Court is a retirement block chosen for its quiet and peaceful environment, and they were concerned about the potential increase in noise and disturbance. Despite these objections, the committee ultimately approved the application.
The decision to allow the floodlights was met with mixed reactions from the community, but it is clear that the club’s intention is to provide better facilities for its members and attract new players to the sport. It is important for both the club and the residents to find a compromise and work towards coexisting harmoniously.
In summary, the Urmston Cricket and Lawn Tennis Club has been granted permission to install floodlights on their tennis courts, despite facing opposition from nearby residents. The decision was based on the club’s efforts to address concerns and maintain its facilities for its members, as well as the potential for the floodlights to attract more players and benefit the community.