A POLICY has been published by the county council on the use of school sites in Hampshire by sports clubs and leisure companies which want to set up long-term private sports facilities.

The authority says that while it has always supported the principle of school sites being used for sports and community projects, there are many factors which need to be considered before a long-term lease is granted.

Included in the Hampshire County Council policy is a curb on licensed bars on school sites.

The county council says it recognises it is unlikely sports providers will be able to operate schemes without income from a licensed bar, but all bars will be rigorously controlled through the terms of the lease to ensure opening times are outside school hours, extensions kept to a minimum and there is responsible management.

The policy states that each school site will be carefully assessed as to its suitability for private sports facilities, the impact on neighbouring community facilities and to ensure the school continues to meet education standards.

Leases will only be granted subject to planning consent and after consultation with nearby residents.

Commercial businesses will be charged commercial rent levels.

Rent for community facilities which will invest surplus income into services and facilities for the school and community will be settled at a lower level.

Andrew Smith, the county council's director of property, building and regulatory services, said: "Additional sports facilities can bring many advantages to communities and schools, giving more people the opportunity to participate in and enjoy the benefits of sports and exercise.

"However, provision of facilities for private sports use on school sites will be supported by the county council only if proposals have the full backing of the school's governing body, they do not conflict with education policy and are appropriate to the location of the school."

First published: Monday, April 25, 2002