COUNCILLORS have reacted with delight after planning permission was granted for a much-anticipated multi use games area in Holsworthy.

Torridge District Council approved the planning application which was required to make the eagerly awaited ‘Playzone’ facility at Stanhope Park.

The facility will be located on land to the south of the existing football pitch.

It is designed to be a flood-lit sports facility which will cater for individuals and groups seeking to play football, netball and other sports in a dedicated, versatile facility which will incorporate integrated goal units and netball facilities among its offerings.

However, it is primarily targeted at individuals and small groups and due to being two metres too small, cannot be used for competitive netball matches.

The management of the facility will be controlled by an electronic booking system.

It will be funded by a grant from the Football Foundation, while Holsworthy Town Council contributed £35,000 to help make the scheme a reality.

Cllr Nigel Kenneally, the Torridge District Council member for Milton and Tamarside said: “Very proud to play a small part in getting this project across the line. This is great news for Holsworthy and the surrounding areas!!!

“However, a big thank you must go to Cllr Lyndon Piper and the community engagement team at Torridge District Council for all the hard work they have put in seeing this project through!

“Thanks must also go to Holsworthy Town Council for supporting this from the very beginning, with a £35,000 investment in the project!

“It's been a long time coming, but a new sports facility is finally coming to town.”

Cllr Jon Hutchings, the mayor of Holsworthy was equally delighted, adding: “This will be a great asset to Holsworthy. The Town Council has supported this project from the start and have set aside £35,000 to go towards the build.”