Eastbourne granted permission for ground improvements

Eastbourne United Rugby Club has been given planning permission to refurbish its ground in improvements that will allow the club to compete at Level 8 in the football pyramid.

As part of renovations the club would replace one of its stands and build three new stands as well as a turnstile at its Oval ground.

The club currently competes in the Sussex County League Division One at Level 9 in the pyramid but would now pass the ground criteria required to play in the Ryman League Division One South.

 The successful application to Eastbourne Borough Council had faced considerable opposition from locals near the ground.  A spokesperson for the club said the new additions would help the club both on and off the field.

"The new look of the Oval will not only encourage players but also new members of the public and local community groups who would be able to use the facilities and therefore the Oval can grow to become a great community asset," he said.