A CONTROVERSIAL planning application for new sports facilities on space at Britten’s Field in Ilminster has been approved by South Somerset District Council.

Councillors backed proposals for the facilities for Ilminster Town Football Club at a meeting last Wednesday.

The plans to revamp the area include a clubhouse for the football club along with a parking area.

The clubhouse would include four changing rooms, two referee rooms and a social room also available to the community.

Darren Manley, chairman of Ilminster Football Club, said the news was great for them and the whole of the community.

He told the News: “It’s brilliant; we’re all really excited and really pleased that permission has been given.

“It has been a long time in the making, people have been trying to submit an application for years and then about three years ago we decided to have a go so we’re just delighted.

“This is not only wonderful news for the club, but also for the community. “It is for the community to use as well and we hope that people in Ilminster and the surrounding areas do come to use it.

“Over the next few weeks we’ll be sorting things out and picking someone to build the club house so hopefully it will be ready early by this time next year.”

But not all were thrilled at the news. Before the application was submitted in October, over 1,300 objectors signed a petition calling for Britten’s Field to be saved.

Sue Moore, who spearheaded the campaign, said she felt it was a great shame for the residents of Ilminster and that they had been let down.

She added: “Ilminster will lose its parkland, a great asset which can be used by all family members for many activities.

“We are left with a sports ground rather than a recreation area, with two social clubs on one recreation ground, two football pitches with railings around, a highly dangerous entrance and entrance and exit point on a blind bend of Canal Way and no way of knowing if the football club can afford the rent and utilities on the building and no reassurance that Ilminster residents will not end up paying for this long term.”

But Sue added that she congratulated the football club on their efforts.

“They have strong support within the club and I wish them every success in the future.”

The planning report before councillors at the meeting stated: “The proposed development by reason of its design, siting and location will provide a much needed improved facility for Ilminster Football Club and a community space for the town, would respect the character and appearance of the area, would not harm residential amenity, and make adequate provision for vehicular/pedestrian access and parking.”