AMBITIOUS plans to rebuild a crumbling rugby clubhouse could be scuppered after authorities came out against the development.
Upper Clapton Rugby Club, which is used by up to 250 youngsters from across the district each weekend, wants to sell its existing car park with planning permission for eight homes to fund the rebuild.
But Epping Forest District Council planners have said the club’s situation was not enough to outweigh the “very real harm” it would cause the Green Belt.
Head of development at the club in Upland Road, Thornwood, Paul Donnelly, said: “We’re not sure which part will eventually fall down first.
“The club house is 1933 and the wood is decaying. We wouldn’t know where to start with repairs.
“I can’t even imagine not getting planning permission. We would not be able to get enough grants to raise the funds.”
Neighbours have raised fears that the development would threaten their privacy, lead to an increase in traffic and ruin the look of the area.
Mr Donnelly, 56, said: "Parking is a huge issue for us on a Sunday.
“But the actual development allows for an increase of 100 cars in the parking space.”
Two petitions have been handed into the council in support of the plans – one signed by 315 people and another with 161 signatures.
“We’re a hugely popular club,” said Mr Donnelly. “We go out into schools and we have a relationship with Davenant Foundation School in Loughton and hold tag tournaments.
“Unlike other clubs which are losing membership, we’ve gained members.”
But council planners objected to the semi-detached, four-bedroom houses being built on untouched countryside against current council policy.
In a report to be put before councillors on Wednesday, they added that people living in the houses would be reliant on their cars for transport and would not have big enough gardens.
Councillors on the east area planning subcommittee are due to decide whether the club’s plans can go ahead during a meeting at the council’s Epping High Street offices from 7.30om on Wednesday.
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