Coalville Town FC have been given the go-ahead to install a 3G artificial grass pitch which is designed to be used seven days a week at their Owen Street ground.

North West Leicestershire District Council has permitted the development which includes the pitch plus perimeter fencing, hardstanding areas, team shelters, a storage container and floodlights within the existing Coalville Town base.

The proposal also includes the creation of footpath to Snibston Colliery car park to the north west of the site.

A council officer's report says: "The application proposes to enhance an existing sports and recreation facility.

"Sport England raises no objection to the loss of a sports pitch, as the proposal would enhance the existing facility.

"The principle of development is therefore considered acceptable subject to the development being acceptable in other respects.

"The applicant is proposing to use the 3G pitch between 9am and 10pm seven days a week.

"The associated floodlighting could therefore also be in use until 10pm everyday as the pitch will be all-weather playable.

"The submitted planning statement also requests that the lights/pitch be used as late as 11pm on 10 occasions throughout the year to cater for cup matches and other possible events/tournaments.

"The application site is in a mixed area with residential uses to the north and south of the wider site and industrial uses to the east. There are existing floodlights elsewhere within the wider club facility which are restricted to use between 16:00 and 22:00 on any day.

"The proposed 3G pitch may increase the intensity at which the site is used as it will provide flexible use pitches which can be used all year around and in all weather conditions."

The council adds that the development is not likely to increase noise levels for local residents.

The report adds: "It is not considered that noise creation from players or spectators would be sufficiently increased or any existing impacts exacerbated to justify refusal of the application.

"It is recommended that the recommendations within the Noise Impact Assessment be implemented and secured by condition."