SUCCESS on the pitch is causing revenue challenges for Lymm Rugby Club – and has resulted in another planning application for permission to store caravans at the club’s Crouchley Lane ground.
The application – for permission to store up to 75 caravans for a temporary period of 18 months – has been submitted to Warrington Borough Council’s planning department.
It follows earlier similar applications in 2020 and 2022.
Documents submitted to Warrington Borough Council planners set out how the original application was granted in recognition of a threat posed to the future of the club through to lost revenues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The club is now back in full operation but continues to face revenue problems due to inflation and increased costs following the successful 2022-23 season when the first team was promoted to Liven 4 National League 2 North – the highest level the club had ever played at.
Temporary caravan storage had generated an income stream that had proved to be critical in supporting and sustaining the rugby club and its future development.
The caravans were stored on existing hardstanding not required for car parking.
Upon expiry of the temporary consent, the land would revert to its previous approved use – the future development of new rugby club facilities
The granting of the additional temporary consent would not change any of the sporting facilities or activities at the rugby club. Existing pitches and clubhouse facilities would remain unchanged.
Planning officers will now consider the application.
Lymm Rugby Club was established in 1960 and has grown to become a substantial community enterprise with more than 1,000 members. It promotes an active calendar of evens throughout the year in addition to its core sporting activities.
