Faraday Road Artificial Grass Pitch update

West Berkshire Council is making a focused change to its current planning application for the Faraday Road Football Ground in Newbury. The Artificial Grass 3G Pitch (AGP) element is being withdrawn for now, while a revised application for the erection of floodlighting continues.

This approach follows feedback from Natural England regarding the proximity of the site to the canal and the risk of microplastics entering the River Kennet. The Council will now be working proactively to address these points.

Importantly, this is not a withdrawal of the entire planning application, only the AGP element. All other elements remain in place.

Proceeding with floodlights now will help the Faraday Road ground meet Football Association Step 6 ground‑grading requirements for next season, which include having floodlighting approved before the end of March.

The Council remains fully committed to delivering a high-quality 3G pitch at Faraday Road, consistent with our Playing Pitch Strategy and our commitment to widening access to year-round, inclusive sports facilities. A 3G surface would significantly increase reliable pitch hours for clubs, schools, and community groups, promoting participation, fitness, and wellbeing in all weathers.

Councillor Nigel Foot, Executive Member for Culture, Leisure, Sport and Countryside, said,

"We have decided to remove the pitch element from the current planning application so that the Faraday Road ground can secure the floodlights needed for FA Step 6 ground‑grading this season. At the same time, we will work through the drainage and filtration details with Natural England to make sure the new 3G pitch meets the highest environmental standards. Our commitment to providing an artificial pitch at Faraday Road is unchanged, and we will bring forward a new AGP application once those environmental measures are agreed."

He added,

"This is a pragmatic step that keeps progress moving. Floodlights now support the club's ambitions and community use, while the additional design work ensures the final AGP scheme is robust, sustainable and right for Newbury."