The proposed allocation contains playing field land currently occupied by Highgate United FC, Leafield FC and Old Yardleians Rugby Football Club. The consultation document states that re-provision will be required for these sports pitches. The Council's Playing Pitch Strategy identifies that there is a current and future shortfall in playing pitch provision therefore the sites are not considered to be surplus to requirement.

Sport England consider that if the site is allocated a requirement for the allocation policy should state the playing fields (playing pitches and ancillary facilities) should not be developed upon until replacement provision is made in line with the requirements of NPPF paragraph 97(b) and Sport England's Playing Fields Policy.

In relation to the concept masterplans Sport England has previously advised the site promoter that the proposed sports hub site would represent a quantitative loss of playing field land, therefore it would not comply with national planning policy and Sport England policies relating to playing fields.

With regard to SMBC's illustrative emerging concept masterplan it is acknowledged that the site identified as Shirley Town FC is proposed to be retained. However, the retention of the site does not represent replacement provision as implied by the supporting text relating to concept masterplan.

Sport England and the relevant national governing bodies would welcome an opportunity to discuss the options for the replacement sporting provision with the Council and the site promoter.