An application for a new 3G pitch playing surface at a south Pembrokeshire school has been backed by national park planners.

The Pembrokeshire County Council application, supported by Tenby Town Council, for a replacement of the existing pitch surface, extended by approximately nine metres, a replacement perimeter fence, and new LEDs in existing lighting columns at Ysgol Greenhill, Heywood Lane, Tenby was recommended for approval by Pembrokeshire Coast National Park planners.

A supporting statement accompanying the application said: “The new pitch will replace the existing 3G turf, and provide a much-improved 3G playing surface for the school in a secure environment. The new refurbished pitch shall provide a suitable surface for football use. The new surface shall achieve certification for FIFA Quality.

“The current provision of the astro turf pitch is ageing (15 years+) and requires replacing in order to be maintained as a safe usable space. The refurbishment of the facility will ensure the continued outdoor all-weather provision in Tenby for both the school and the catchment community sporting clubs. The transformation of the pitch from an astro turf surface to a 3G will be more beneficial for both the school and the community clubs, resulting in additional utilisation and participation levels.”

An officer report said: “The application site is an existing astro turf pitch sports facility which forms part of the Greenhill School campus. It is principally accessed south off Heywood Lane with additional access north off Marsh Road. The site overall is located within the centre boundary of Tenby Service and Tourism Centre as defined in the Local Development Plan.”

It added: “As an extension of an existing astro turf facility, the proposal is proportionate and modest in scale and size. The proposal reuses existing features of the facility and mimics hours of operation so as not to create any increase in amenity impacts. The broader application site of the Greenhill School campus will accommodate increased green infrastructure that will provide multiple benefits for school pupils and users.

“Overall, the development will not create any detrimental impacts on the special qualities of the National Park.”

The application was conditionally approved.