Planning approval has been granted for a significant development of 113 homes on the outskirts of Broadway, located in the Cotswolds. The project, led by Spitfire Homes, is set to take shape at the Milestone Ground, just over the Gloucestershire border in Worcestershire, wrapping around New Barn Surgery.
In addition to the new homes, the development includes enhanced sports facilities for Broadway Football Club. These amenities will feature a new 3G pitch, three additional football pitches, and a clubhouse to support the club’s growth.
Access to the sprawling 8.3-hectare site will be via Station Road. At a recent meeting of Wychavon District Council’s planning committee, it was confirmed that the development will incorporate 45 affordable homes, a move welcomed by Kevin Beasley of Broadway Parish Council. He expressed appreciation for the developer’s responsiveness to community feedback and highlighted affordable housing as a vital benefit for local young families.
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Nevertheless, the parish council maintains objections, citing concerns over insufficient open space and the development’s appearance, which some feel leans more urban than rural, potentially impacting the area’s traditional character.
Representing Spitfire Homes, Sarah Butterfield clarified that although the existing football pitches serve the club, they are technically private land not fully accessible to the public. The new clubhouse and improved pitches will be leased to Broadway Football Club, which will manage and maintain the facilities. Importantly, an arrangement ensures public access to the sports facilities, balancing community and club interests.
Councillor Emma Kearsey highlighted the dual nature of the project, consisting of a housing estate and a distinct sports complex under the club’s management. She advocated for guaranteed unrestricted public access to at least one pitch. Meanwhile, concerns were raised about potential surface water flooding at the site, but planning officers confirmed that the Environment Agency and Severn Trent have approved the drainage plans.
Councillor Emma Sims sought assurances regarding the versatility of the sports pitches, emphasizing that while they meet Football Association standards for football matches, they will also accommodate rugby training sessions. This comes at a time when studies indicate a growing demand for more 3G pitches across Wychavon.
Adding a historical dimension to the project, archaeological finds on the site have been described as “fascinating,” underscoring the rich heritage intertwined with this new chapter for Broadway.