PLANS have been approved for a multi-use pavilion and clubhouse to replace existing buildings.

Maldon District Council has approved plans for the new clubhouse at the King George V playing field in Station Road, Southminster.

Currently, the site is used for tennis, football, Scout groups, bowling and more.

The plans look to build a large development with car parking, soft landscaping and services infrastructure.

There will be 43 more car parking spaces, which will bring the total number on the site to 67.

There will also be two disabled spaces, where currently there are none.

Inside the building, there will be changing rooms and two function rooms which can be opened up as a large function room on the ground floor.

There will be a kitchen and serving hatch to serve half-time drinks to visitors during match fixtures.

There are plans for a function room to hold 80 people and a gym area on the first floor.

The planning application says: “The proposed accommodation has been developed by Southminster Parish Council to reflect feedback from public consultation and analysis of the local need to ensure that the new facilities offer a viable and sustainable facility for the long-term benefit of the local community.

The existing structures will be removed to make way for the new development.

READ MORE>>> Plans to update the playing field with a new pavilion

The planning application says the current changing rooms and buildings are inadequate, adding: “The condition of these existing modular buildings limits their appeal and suitability for use as long-term community facilities and they are becoming uneconomic to operate, maintain and repair.

“Similarly, the existing tarmac court area is underutilized for sports due to the poor condition of the existing tarmac surface, brick boundary wall and fencing.

“Significant investment would be required to bring these facilities up to a reasonable standard.”

The council hopes to start work on the project next year.