WELLINGTON Tennis Club has been granted full planning permission for six floodlights to be erected on its new court at the Playing Field.

The club did not consider floodlights due to the cost when it applied for planning permission in 2016.

But its project to improve a local sports club and encourage greater participation for members and public in dark winter months met with Sport England’s approval and the club was offered £30,000 if it gained planning permission.

Chairman Sue Rackley said: “I was rather disappointed to hear the negative comments from a few councillors as reported in the local press.

“I thought I’d put the record straight. Hemyock, Minehead, Wiveliscombe and Willand tennis clubs are all surrounded by houses so I’m pleased the planners didn’t reject the project on the grounds of excess light and noise disturbance, especially as in the winter windows will be shut and residents won’t be sitting in their gardens.

“Lights will have to go off at 9pm and the project will come at no cost to the community.”