Changing facilities granted for bowling club

Members of a thriving bowling club in Bideford are going to be able to get changed more easily.

Planning permission has been granted for two 8×3 metre men and women’s cabins at Victoria Park Bowling Club, which will also have an external covered seating areas attached.

In allowing the application, Torridge District Council’s plans committee encouraged the club to install solar panels and water collection facilities to address climate change.

The 2.5 metre high structures will be next to the main clubhouse and 20 metres away from the nearest properties. Two hedges will separate residents from the cabins.

As well as changing areas, the cabinss will have storage for bowls, bowling attire and equipment.

Planners were told he application would bring social benefits by enhancing a facility that could be used by the wider community. Bideford Town Council supported the scheme.

The club opened in 1950 and has around 80 members, including a vibrant social side.