Cricket Nets and Pavillion Public Consultation
The Governing Body of Sheldon School is seeking views on a proposal to change the use of part of the school’s playing field located at Hardenhuish Lane, Chippenham, SN14 6HJ. This consultation is being carried out in accordance with Section 77 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998 and associated guidance from the Department for Education.
The school would like to hold a Public Consultation on Tuesday 24 November from 6:30pm-7:30pm in the Sheldon School Hall regarding a proposal to utilise a proportion of the school playing field for cricket practice nets and a cricket pavilion.
The Proposal
It is proposed that the school enter into a 25 year lease with the Chippenham Cricket Club to allow for the Cricket Club to erect playing nets on the school’s playing field southeast side. The school will have access to the nets during the school day and for after school use. Chippenham Cricket Club is obtaining grant funding of around £50,000 for the project from the English Cricket Board.
In addition, the school and Chippenham Cricket Club would like to utilise an area of approximately 333 square metres to create a pavilion in the same location. This would enable access to toilets, changing rooms and a central social space by members of the Chippenham Cricket Club consisting of seniors, juniors (age 14-19), inclusive adult Saturday teams and the women's and girls’ teams.
Chippenham Cricket Club is able to secure funding for the pavilion from the England Cricket Board and through funds raised by Chippenham Cricket Club itself.
Rationale
The change of use is intended to support the expansion of school facilities and to grow community use of the school site. The proposal has been developed with consideration of student needs, curriculum requirements, and community benefit.
Impact
We recognise that this proposal may affect environmental and landscape aspects of the site. However, measures will be taken to mitigate any negative impacts. The proposed pavilion is single story with environmental features such as grey water systems and environmentally friendly materials.
Consultation Process
We invite all stakeholders to submit their views, including parents, pupils, staff, local residents, and community groups. A Public Consultation is planned for Tuesday 24 November from 6:30pm-7:30pm in the Sheldon School Hall. This will provide an opportunity for the school and Chippenham Cricket Club to showcase the plans and benefits for the school and community groups.
If you are not able to attend the consultation, please review the attached documents and complete this form.
How to Respond
Please email enquiries@sheldonschool.co.uk if you wish to respond to the consultation. Responses must be received by 12 noon on 24 December 2026.
Next Steps
Following the consultation, responses will be reviewed and a report will be submitted to the Department for Education for consideration.