A SCHOOL is set to get a new state-of-the-art sports pitch.

The Billericay School, in School Road, Billericay, has asked for permission to build the multi-purpose artificial pitch, which can be used come rain or shine.

The floodlit ground, which will replace an existing worn-out sports court, could be built in time for the new school term in September.

Students will make use of the huge pitch, which can be split into three separate areas, during school hours, but it will be available for community hire in the evenings, at weekends and during school holidays.

Jenny Moore, business manager at the school, said: “There will be three full-size pitches which will be of huge benefit to our students all year round, as it will mean matches and activities will no longer be so weatherdependent.

“The school boasts a number of teams which have been very successful in a number of sports at county and national level, so we hope these new facilities will bolster and extend that success.”

The PE department will use the pitch for football, rugby, hockey, athletics and other sports.

The Billericay School runs a fully-equipped sports centre which is open to the public.

It features a gym, swimming pool, badminton courts and a treatment centre.

Planning officers at Basildon Council are set to make a decision on proposals for the new sports pitch by the end of June.

Mrs Moore added: “This will also be a wonderful new resource for the community of Billericay.

“Our sports centre, which includes a fitness suite, is already very well-used by individuals, clubs and community groups in the evenings, weekends and school holidays, so the addition of a floodlit all-weather pitch will further enhance and expand that provision.

“We hope it will encourage more local people to take advantage of the opportunity to participate in sporting activities and competitive sport.”