A NEW padel facility and 3G football pitch could be developed at a hotel in Barnsley if plans get the seal of approval in a bid to secure its long-term future after a ‘catastrophic’ economic period.
Saul Homes has submitted a full planning application to Barnsley Council for a site at Burntwood Court, a hotel and leisure facility on Common Road, Brierley, which has been run by the Saul family for four decades.
Permission is being sought for the development of the padel club and football pitch on the 2.17-acre site.
According to the application, four padel courts with associated open structure and lights, as well as a new club building, are included.
A football pitch with 3G synthetic grass, with surrounding fencing and lights, would also be created.
A planning statement said: “As custodians of the facility, Burntwood is more than just a business for the Saul family - it is a home, a legacy and a livelihood.
“These latest proposals are part of an ongoing aspiration towards positive investment and adaptation, which places the community and local economy at the very heart of Burntwood.
“There would be a clear benefit from the proposals insofar as helping to secure the viability of the Burntwood Court facility.
“The catastrophic economic impact of Covid-19 has been well documented, with businesses still recovering to this day.
“It is important for the business to keep developing, to listen to its members and continue to extend and progress with the trends and always stay relevant.
“Particularly, the proposed development would perfectly complement the fitness club which is typically in high demand.
“It is expected that the padel courts and football pitch would provide a great offer for the region which is lacking.
“Similarly, the proposed club building and the natural features would be suitable for the setting.”
Burntwood Court currently comprises hotel accommodation, conferencing facilities, health and fitness centre, bar and restaurant, and ceremony hall, with holiday pods currently under construction.
A public consultation phase is now open, which runs until April 14.
The planning statement added: “Despite the site’s green belt designation, it is asserted that the impact of development would be minimal and would not adversely affect the area.
“Furthermore, very special circumstances pertaining to the viability of a local business and its contribution to the local economy of Barnsley, as well as the substantial biodiversity gains that would be achieved, outweigh any presumption that the proposed development would be inappropriate.”
