Rugby club could be demolished for 150 houses in Rushden

A rugby club could be knocked down and rebuilt nearby to allow for a new development of up to 150 houses.

Rushden & Higham RUFC plays at Manor Park in Rushden, but with the clubhouse showing its age and club membership increasing, the facilities are proving to be inadequate.

The proposed relocation is part of a broader scheme to redevelop Manor Park for residential use and would see the club move to the east of the John White Golf Club.

If approved, there would be a new multi-purpose clubhouse, four playing pitches, practice ground and new access road as well as parking.

The plans have been designed in full consultation with the rugby club and Sport England, with the hope of creating a high quality facility that exceeds the existing provision at Manor Park.

However, this can only go ahead if approval is given for demolition of the existing rugby club and erection of up to 150 dwellings on the site with open space and associated works.

The houses would be a mix of three to five-bed detached or semi-detached properties, which they hope would establish a 'high quality family-based community in this part of Rushden.'

Documents submitted to East Northants Council say: "This statement has been prepared on behalf of Rushden Town Council, who seek outline planning permission for the residential development of Manor Park, Rushden, and full planning permission for the erection of new sports facilities on land east of the A6.

"The two applications are linked in both policy and practical terms.

"It is anticipated that permissions will be tied to one another by way of legal agreement and/or conditions.

"In summary, the delivery of the replacement sports facilities must occur prior to the redevelopment of Manor Park, which will in turn fund the construction of the new facilities."

And the documents go on to say: "The applications accord with the Development Plan and should therefore be granted permission without delay.

"Furthermore, they represent a highly sustainable form of development with significant benefits in terms of delivering high quality new community facilities, and locating new dwellings in a location within easy access of day-to-day facilities and non-car transport modes."

Both planning applications will be considered by East Northants Council.