PERMISSION is being requested to create an artificial floodlit grass pitch at Sutton Leisure Centre.

Proposals include for fencing, entrance gates, the creation of hard standing areas with porous asphalt surfacing, fencing, portable goal storage and a floodlight system and other associated works.

Plans state: "This proposal offers an ideal opportunity to introduce a state-of-the-art Artificial Grass Pitch (AGP) for young aspiring footballers and for senior football, to be enjoyed by local community sports clubs and groups visiting Sutton Leisure Centre.

"The plan is to increase grassroots football development at the sports ground and to encourage whole-life sport by enhance pathways into senior football; through an enhanced offer and via pre-arranged and structured community access, which continues the club’s long history of providing facilities for the community".

They also say: "The requested operational times will provide opportunities for the AGP to be used for a maximum of 83 hours each week which is necessary to satisfy community demands for the sports facility whilst balancing the necessary protection of neighbours amenity.

"The AGP will replace part of the grass playing field at Sutton Leisure Centre this proposed location will afford convenient access for all community visitors to and from changing accommodation and administration facilities; as well as convenient maintenance and emergency access".

It adds: "This project will deliver genuine benefits in terms of sports engagement and as such, the proposed sports facility will serve to further enhance the excellent sporting offer that St Helens Council provides to the local community".

Plans are on consultation until Tuesday, September 10.