A SCHOOL says muddy sports pitches could be a “thing of the past” as it announced plans for an all-weather sports pitch and changing rooms.

Cardinal Newman Catholic School in The Upper Drive, Hove, revealed it wanted the new facility to benefit both students and “sports teams across the city”.

The school’s headteacher, Dr James Kilmartin, said: “We know from our own experience and from the findings of the city council that clubs are under-served in terms of all-weather facilities and we look forward to helping fill the unmet demand for quality artificial grass pitches.

“We are so pleased to bring forward our plans for this new pitch and hope that the availability of an additional all-weather surface will inspire our students and more young people across the city to participate in sport more frequently.

“We very much hope muddy winter pitches will become a thing of the past.”

The pitch would be built on the Cardinal Newman Catholic School grounds in Hove.

The school is currently consulting with parents and neighbours ahead of the application being made to Brighton and Hove City Council.

It has unveiled its plans after a successful season of sport for the school.

Cardinal Newman’s Newman Rugby Academy were crowned winners at the AoC National Championships in April 2019 and the boys’ football team reached the final of the English Schools Football Association U13 National Schools Cup in May 2018.

Dr Kilmartin said: “We are extremely proud of our student sportsmen and sportswomen and hope the availability of a state-of-the-art pitch will nurture continued dedication to sport at our school.”

The school will shortly submit a planning application for the installation of the Astroturf surface, as well as changing facilities.