A FARM no longer usable for growing food will be used for new sports pitches, if an application is approved.

Lower Mount Farm, which belongs to major landowners the Copas family and situated in Cookham, has already been given permission for such a plan over 20 years ago.

In 1991, planning officials gave the thumbs up for football pitches on the old gravel pit on the site to help find a solution for sports teams looking for more land to play on.

Geoffrey Copas said in his planning application: "Sadly nothing came of the suggestion, but we are
aware that problems still exist.

"We have recently been reconsidering this proposal and are looking to reapply for the land to be used for sports pitches.

"Hopefully this will then be taken up by the sports clubs experiencing a shortage of facilities. As food cannot be produced economically on poor land we see that recreational is possible an acceptable alternative use, particularly as it is supported by planning policies."

The scheme could mean the land is turned into football and rugby pitches in the winter with a cricket pitch being made available during the summer months for clubs in the area.

There would be a car parking area close to Long Lane, with the position for possible future sports pavilion also outlined.

Planning authority The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead will rule on the application.