A school’s plans to build a 3G sports pitch costing to the tune of £1m have been hailed “one of the most important developments proposed in the area”.

The Abbey School in Faversham hopes to build the new surface along with 15-metre tall LED floodlights, storage areas and a 102 car park extension.

Official papers launched to Swale Borough Council (SBC) show it would be constructed adjacent to an existing synthetic turf provision, on grassland used as an athletics track.

In a letter supporting the planning bid, a resident wrote: “The benefits extend far beyond our club.

“They reach into the hearts and lives of countless individuals, empowering them to be active participants in their own health and wellbeing.”

Urging the council to approve the plans, another added: “This has to be one of the most important developments proposed in the area, and I cannot see why it would not be allowed to proceed.”

If approved, the 3G pitch would be suitable for 11-a-side football matches in line with FA guidelines as well as rugby training.

Though an exact price has not been confirmed, Sport England estimates such a facility would cost at least £1 million – though this could rise by hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Bosses behind the project told SBC in planning papers: “The proposed facility will offer a variety of football pitch sizes and training areas suitable for a range of age groups within the same enclosed playing space.

“This supports grassroots sport development plans as well as meaning the pitch can cater for a wide array of potential users (in comparison to the existing pitch).

“Synthetic turf pitches are more durable compared to natural turf, especially during winter weather conditions, which offers increased opportunity for sports use to improve the health and wellbeing of the local community.”

The existing 3G pitch is used by a variety of teams such as Faversham Strike Force, Faversham Town and Dover Athletic’s post-16 academy.

If approved, it would be in use between 8am and 10pm Monday to Friday, and 10am to 6pm on weekends and bank holidays.

It is hoped up to 70% of bookings would be used for women and girls’ sports, while it is predicted the new pitch will bring in about £72,000 a year.

Storage for goals and a spectator area would also be implemented as part of the significant investment.

The extension of the car park would see disabled spaces, electric vehicle charging points and a net increase of 77 regular spots built to the west of the existing area.

So far, reaction to the project has been wholly positive – with Strike Force officials and fans particularly enthused by the project.

The club’s chairman Mike Ellett told planning officers: “The proposed project to install an additional 3G pitch is crucial for our club's continued growth and ability to serve our community effectively.

“With 257 children and young people currently on our waiting list, the new pitch will alleviate pressure on our existing facilities.

“It will allow us to accommodate more participants from diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities who benefit greatly from our inclusive programmes.

“The pitch would support greater opportunities for participation and development, ensuring that more members of our community can enjoy the benefits of football.

On behalf of the club, I urge you to approve this planning application. Your support will enable us to continue making a positive impact on the lives of our members and the broader community.”

SBC is expected to decide on the plans later this year.