Plans have been submitted for a major upgrade of Macclesfield Rugby Union Club – and they include the provision of a care home and bungalows on the site to fund the scheme.

Howard Homes is seeking permission for new and enhanced sports club facilities at the Priory Park site comprising a new 3G main stadium pitch, additional and improved playing pitches, lighting and drainage improvements, upgraded and extended clubhouse/changing room facilities and a new gym.

The proposal also includes the construction of an 80-bedroom care home and 22 one and two-bed bungalows, together with associated highways, parking, landscaping, open space and other enabling works.

A design and access statement submitted to Cheshire East Council by Studio KMA on behalf of the applicant states: "The proposed development represents a significant investment in Macclesfield's sporting and community infrastructure, securing the long-term future of Macclesfield Rugby Club, a sporting institution that has proudly served the town for over 150 years. "

It says the facilities will be shared by Macclesfield Rugby Club, Lacrosse UK and local football clubs, establishing a genuine multi-sport, multi-club community destination and will cater for participants of all ages and abilities.

The application site extends to approximately 9.1 hectares and is in the green belt, although the applicant argues it meets grey belt criteria.

Proposed character area plan Macclesfield Rugby Club (Credit: KMA)

A planning statement submitted by Rapleys for the applicant says: "The only logical place to deliver the planned additional sports facilities is at the existing MRUFC site, which is already located within the green belt.

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"The site offers significant potential for growth and expansion, without extending any further into the wider green belt and delivering development that is in keeping with the scale and character of other sports, recreational, educational and residential uses in the immediate area."

It adds: "The delivery of acutely needed care home and bungalow development not only represents a significant benefit in its own right, but it is critical to the ability of the rugby club to deliver the planned sports facility improvements.

"Without the land receipt from these elements of the scheme, the rugby club would be unable to finance the improved facilities, and without the more sustainable level of income that the proposals would generate, the future of the club, or at the very least the maintenance of the existing facilities, will be placed in jeopardy."

The application, number 26/3523/FUL, can be viewed on the planning portal on Cheshire East Council's website.

The last date for comments is November 5.