A cricket club which has been operating at the same site for more than 120 years has been given permission to extend its clubhouse and outdoor spectator terrace.

David Enright of Edgworth Cricket Club, applied to Blackburn with Darwen Council in November seeking planning permission for the erection of a single storey in-fill extension to the front of the clubhouse in Bolton Road, Turton, with associated outdoor spectator terrace extension.

A planning statement submitted with the application read: “It is submitted that the existing veranda has proved to be a congested space that restricts access to the main entrance of the clubhouse.

“Due to the popularity of the clubhouse and the demand for additional indoor seating, the proposed extension is to simply enclose the existing veranda space to create additional indoor space.

“Rationale of the outdoor terrace extension is to accommodate spectators during cricket matches and seating in the warmer months to encourage customers away from congregating outside of the clubhouse doorways.”

The cricket club originated at the site in 1902 and continued throughout the 20th century with regular success.

Increasing concern over the deteriorating condition on the pavilion accommodation throughout the 1990s signalled a lengthy and tedious attempt to resolve the main difficulty of the club occupying an area of Trust property and not having benefit of a lease, but nevertheless, the club continued to function to a moderate standard, endeavouring always to fulfil its responsibilities to the best of abilities available both on and off the field.

Following relentless efforts by the Edgworth Cricket and Recreation club committee, and subsequent correspondence with Sport England, the club was awarded a grant in 2004 to develop and improve the site.

The old clubhouse was knocked down in 2005 to make way for a new clubhouse and further applications to the council were made in 2018 for a new scoreboard, and in 2020 for an artificial pitch.

The planning statement went on: “The proposed facilities outlined within this application are intended to serve existing members, players and community, not attract additional members or customers from outside of the local vicinity.

“The existing membership base is ample and the proposals pertaining to this application are specifically related to the enhancement of their enjoyment of the club.

“Works to extend the existing clubhouse commenced in 2018 to accommodate new function space at ground floor and changing facilities at first floor.

“The existing facilities are used by the local community in plentiful demand.

“The clubhouse in the main hub of Edgworth village and proves to be the main venue to meet and socialise all year round.

“Inclusive of the obvious provision of cricket matches, it also offers amenities for many different purposes, from supper clubs to darts competitions, private functions to community meetings.

“Following the previous expansion of the club, its popularity has soared and the extra function space that was gifted is always in demand.

“The official club membership has never been rivalled and increases annual, reflecting the popularity.”

Twelve neighbours were consulted and one letter of support was received with no objections lodged.

Planning permission was granted on December 21.