Football club training pitches plan for green belt

A fifth of a country park could be sold to a football club for training facilities under plans to be discussed by a Worcestershire council.

Kidderminster Harriers Football Club wants to buy land from Wyre Forest District Council at Burlish Country Park, also known as Burlish Meadows Conservation Area.

It hopes to build four full-size pitches, three of which would be artificial grass, on the former golf course off Zortech Avenue in Kidderminster.

The authority's overview and scrutiny committee will consider the proposal at its meeting on Thursday, with its recommendations discussed by the cabinet on 9 July.

The site has been public recreation space since 2018 and is designated as green belt.

A report to the committee recommends the plans are agreed.

"The proposal would have benefits for sport and healthy living in terms of increased facilities for football," it stated.

"These would be enjoyed not only by players but by family members and other supporters."

The report added sporting clubs were known for "fostering positive well-being among those involved" and also provided volunteering opportunities "which can provide positive life skills".

The club, which has just secured promotion to the National League, is also buying its Aggborough Stadium, adjacent car park and the supporters' club from the council under plans agreed earlier this year.

The plans for Burlish Meadows include two smaller pitches for junior football and would be subject to a planning application and permission.

The council said a public consultation would be held on any planning application.

Commenting on the proposal on social media, residents expressed concerns about the impact on wildlife and the loss of green space, which is popular with dog walkers.

Others suggested the development would have a positive impact on the club.

But the area being considered for sale did not form part of Burlish Top Nature Reserve, the authority said, and was approximately 8.5 hectares out of a total of 40 hectares of Burlish Country Park.

Councillor David Ross, cabinet Member for finance and the capital portfolio, believes having a successful football club will bring investment into the area.

"We want the football club to succeed and grow talent for the future," he said.

"While the country park is well-used by locals, significant areas would remain available for public use and enjoyment."

The authority added that if the cabinet decided to go ahead with the sale, it would advertise the intention to sell the land and any comments received would be taken into consideration before a final decision was made.

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