The 2G artificial pitch at Coldhams Common is set to be swapped out for a newer 3G surface that’s better suited for football.
The sports pitch in Coldhams Common is due to be replaced with a new and improved pitch.(Image: Google)
Plans got the green light to replace a ‘worn-out’ sports field in Cambridge with an upgraded version. Officials from Cambridge City Council said the current 2G artificial turf on Coldhams Common had seen better days and needed replacing. The plan includes installing a new 3G artificial surface, along with fresh lighting, fencing, and walkways.
Councillors reviewed the plans at their meeting this week (July 3). A planning officer mentioned that parts of the existing pitch were “quite worn” because it’s been heavily used over time. They added that the 2G pitch was put in around 2011-2012 and has now reached its lifespan.
They explained that 2G pitches are generally designed more for hockey players, which was mainly how this field was used when it first went down. But since then, new hockey pitches have popped up elsewhere, so now the council wants a 3G pitch that’s better for football and similar sports.
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Officials also said they’ll add 50 cycle parking spots and that the new fencing should help cut down on vandalism problems nearby. Councillor Naomi Bennett described the old pitch as “pretty much dead” and mentioned there’s strong local support for these upgrades.
Councillor Martin Smart brought up concerns about how these changes might affect bats living or passing through the area. Officers responded saying while lights will be brighter right on the pitch, overall light spill into surrounding spaces will actually go down compared to what’s there now. The councillors all voted yes to back these plans.
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