Plans to build four small sided 3G football pitches at Withdean Sports Complex are moving forward, as a planning application has been submitted to the council.
If approved the pitches, with floodlighting for year-round use, would be built next year on the east end overflow car park.
Enclosed by high banks, Withdean Road and the athletics track, the area has been chosen to limit the impact on local residents.
The floodlights would be positioned much lower than the existing floodlights at the athletics track. The site is also close to the proposed new Padel courts.
Providing more 3G football pitches in the city is included in the council’s Sports Facilities Investment Plan, which sets out how sports will be developed in the city over the next 10 years.
The plan aims to develop Withdean Sports Complex into one of three major sport and leisure hubs within the city.
The new facility would help to meet strong demand across the city for all weather football pitches, identified in the 2019 Local Football Facility Plan.
It would also build on the legacy of the UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 tournament, which aims to provide more opportunities for women and girls to participate in football.
Ken Benham, CEO Sussex County FA, said: “The Sussex County FA supports Brighton & Hove City Council’s plans for an all-weather facility at Withdean Stadium.
“The Local Football Facility Plan identified the need for more 3Gs in Brighton & Hove for grassroots football and this facility is a welcome addition to the recently installed 3Gs in the area.
“Increased participation of women and girls playing football, following Brighton & Hove hosting the UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 Tournament, forms part of its legacy.
"The all-weather pitches will counter this increased demand by providing more women and girls the opportunity to play for fun/recreationally on a quality surface.”
Over the last few years, pitches at Stanley Deason and Portslade have been refurbished by the council and are now regularly used for training by various clubs and charitable organisations They include Albion in the Community and Whitehawk, Mile Oak and Hangleton Rangers football clubs.
Councillor Martin Osborne, co-chair of the Tourism, Equalities, Communities and Culture Committee added: “A new football facility at Withdean would provide great opportunities for training and recreational play for many more local football clubs along with schools and community groups in the surrounding area.
“It would also enhance our growing reputation as a major sporting city.”
Comments on the planning application must be submitted by December 8.
