A NEW all-weather sports pitch is to be developed at a Kent school, even though it will be right next to homes.

Thomas Aveling School was given planning permission to build the pitch at its premises in Arethusa Road, Strood, despite objections from local residents and concerns from some councillors.

But Cllr Ken Bamber (Con) praised the community-minded attitude of the school for offering to make the ground available for out of school use.

“It’s a progressive school,” he said.

“Only three or four houses in Friston Way will be affected – we should go ahead and approve it.”

Ward councillor Nick Brice (Con) urged councillors to make a site visit to see for themselves. “The residents are being perfectly reasonable,” he said.

Cllr John Ward (Con) said that despite selling part of the school grounds for housing there were other areas where the sports pitch could be sited without affecting neighbours.

But another ward councillor, Nick Bowler (Lab) said there were repeated comments from children that they lacked facilities.

“Go ahead and agree it,” he said.

The committee agreed, and also approved plans for a new performing arts centre.