Riding Mill Tennis Club floodlight plan draws mixed reaction

The scheme, submitted to Northumberland County Council (NCC) at the start of June, would see a three-column mast LED lighting system installed at the courts on Millfield Road.

The club said lighting would help secure its long-term future by allowing play beyond late afternoon during winter months.

It also hopes the plan will help maintain and grow its membership base, currently around 100, and support expanded coaching for adults and juniors.

"Riding Mill is one of a very few clubs in Northumberland and Durham, and the only one in the Tyne Valley, not to have court lighting, severely restricting the hours available to play throughout the year," said Colin Tapping, chairman of the club.

"Following an unsuccessful planning application to install a 'Tweener' lighting system in 2023, the club has undertaken a thorough and detailed review of possible alternative systems.

"In collaboration with a specialist lighting consultant and an environmental consultant, the club has selected an option which will provide sufficient lighting to allow tennis to be played on the courts outside daylight hours, while at the same time ensuring any disturbance will be minimal and well within acceptable levels for nearby residents and the local environment."

At the time of writing, the application had attracted 96 comments online, with a mix of support and opposition.

Supporters said the lighting would increase playing opportunities and attract new people to the village and members to the club.

Whilst objectors raised concerns about disturbance to wildlife and residents, arguing the lighting would be out of character for "one of the darkest corners of the village".

The club said it has shared full lighting details on its website for community review since April.

The application reference: 26/02005/FUL, can be viewed via NCC's planning portal.