Plans for a major expansion of a local school’s sports facilities will be decided by the district council.

The proposal includes adding a new astro cricket pitch, five courts to be used for netball or tennis, installing 12 floodlights on the schools’ artificial pitches to allow pupils to play later in the evening and extending the car park to provide an additional 31 spaces.

It also involves extending the front and rear of the Dewey sports centre for the provision of a larger gym, spectator gallery and new studio space on the first floor, as well as a reception, medical room and changing rooms on the ground floor.

Bloxham School, an independent school in the village, applied for planning permission in July.

Cherwell District Council will decide whether to approve plans at their planning meeting on Thursday, December 5.

READ MORE: Abingdon primary school’s kids club criticised by inspectors

The plans received 52 letters of support, on the grounds that it would enhance the schools’ facilities and open it up to further community facilities.

However, they also received 33 objections due to concerns over the added noise and light pollution, the increase in traffic, and the impact it would have on the nearby conservation area.

Bloxham Parish Council also objected because of the increase in traffic, light pollution, increased noise, and impact on local wildlife.

They added that the added car parking would be unlikely to meet the increased demand, with the school proposing to extend its commercial use beyond school hours.

Previous plans to introduce 12 floodlights, extend the car park and relocate the long jump were rejected in 2018.