Stockton Town FC's expansion plans approved despite over 100 objections

Plans to expand Stockton Town Football Club by creating a new pitch and spectator stand have been given the green light by planners.

Ambitious plans to expand Stockton Town Football Club have been approved, despite more than 100 objections from local residents.

The club, on Bishopton Road West, has been given the green light by Stockton planners to erect a 200-seat stand, floodlighting, artificial turf pitch, pay booth, changing facilities and toilet and refreshment areas.

The £700,000 scheme is the latest improvement at the expanding club, which moved to its current premises in 2008.

Stockton Council’s planning committee approved the plans this week, which will give the club the chance to play in a higher league.

Martin Hillerby, club chairman, said the aim is to make the club “more sustainable”.

But the expansion plans had met with a mixed reaction from residents.

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Residents object to Stockton Town FC expansion plans

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Kerry Garbutt, 43, who lives in nearby Meridian Way, said residents had “serious concerns” including that the venue is feet away from houses with young families, increased noise, traffic and parking, overcrowded roads, and light pollution from the floodlit pitches.

Stockton Council’s planning committee heard there had been 106 letters of objection against the plans and 27 in support.

A summary of comments in support said the plans were: “A fantastic opportunity for the schools, the football club, and the community to have access to an all-weather facility, in the very heart of Stockton.

“The immense benefits will not only continue to minimise the anti-social behaviour in the area, but will also allow children and families to engage in sporting activities in a safe and stimulating environment. These facilities will enable local boys and the local community to realise the significant potential that exists in them.”

The council has imposed a condition that the facility closes at 9pm in the week and 5pm at weekends. The natural turf pitch will be allowed to be used until 10pm two nights per week.