THE creation of an Artificial Grass Pitch (AGP) with fencing, floodlighting, car parking and associated features in Launceston has taken a step closer to becoming a reality after a planning application was sent to Cornwall Council recently.

Launceston College — in conjunction with the Football Foundation and Cornwall FA — are hoping to turn the currently unused redgrass area (more commonly known as the hockey pitch) down at the college playing fields into a 97 x 61-metre 3G community football artificial grass pitch facility that can be used all-year round by local sports clubs and members of the community for football and other activities.

The whole cost of the project is £700,000 with the Football Foundation funding two-thirds, Wainhouse Homes’ Withnoe Farm housing development paying £104,650 and the college paying the rest.

If the application is successful then it is hoped that work will start in the autumn with the pitch ready for use by Easter next year.

Launceston College principal, Bryan Maywood, said: “Launceston College is delighted that the 3G project is progressing and hopeful that following successful planning we will be moving at a pace towards an outstanding facility for use by all within the community.

“Initial meetings with local clubs including Plymouth Argyle, Southgate Colts and Launceston AFC have recently taken place, as well as discussions with Cornwall and Devon FA.

“Launceston College has recently hosted a projectability event for people with disability and hope the new facility will allow these kind of events and disability sport, including football, to flourish.”