PLANS to enlarge the playground at a Hampshire school have been given the go-ahead.
New Forest District Council has approved an application to extend an existing facility at Ashley Junior School in New Milton.
Almost 680sqm of extra play space will be provided on the south side of the school buildings.
A report to councillors said: "The proposal entails the provision of an all-weather surface with associated drainage and the provision of two 'free form' mounds to enhance play and viewing of the pitches.
"The proposal would add to the play experience offered by the school by providing an all-weather surface in a south facing location.
"Being well screened from most public vantage points, the proposal would have little impact on the character or appearance of the area.
"The town council has raised an issue in respect of the need to address climate change in line with the emerging New Milton Neighbourhood Plan.
"The provision of a more usable space to the south of the main building, yet with shade close by demonstrates an appropriate use of space together with the porous surface and associated drainage facility."
A design statement which formed part of the application said the scheme would enlarge the playground by 676sqm.
It added: "This would provide the school with a separate Year 3 and 4 playground, which they do not have currently.
"Associated with this would be the installation of play equipment (at a later stage)."
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