Concerns raised over Wrexham training facility at Darland

The pair agreed a deal to build a new Academy training facility at the school earlier this year, with a planning application being submitted last month. 

The facility is a key development on the road to achieving Category Three Academy status, with the club's application for the 2024/25 season currently pending.

The agreement will see Wrexham AFC build five pitches of varying sizes for use by its Academy teams, from ages nine to 18.

Wrexham AFC training facility plans (Image: Planning document)

The facility at the Rossett school will also include bespoke changing rooms, toilets, offices, analysis rooms, medical rooms, a gym, kitchen, meeting rooms and a classroom.

Despite the planning application being submitted late in September and not being granted yet, work has already begun at the site according to residents.

Concerns have been raised by local residents, who feel that their comments on the application may be invalid due to work already being underway.

One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "The council wrote to me last week inviting any comments on the proposals to erect two new buildings and two shipping containers within the school grounds.

"I found this surprising as the buildings were already erected at the school site making this an unlawful development.

Buildings have reportedly been erected at the site. (Image: UGC)

"I contacted the head of planning at Wrexham council who told me that the construction was not approved by the council and it appears the Wrexham FC went ahead with the development without approval. There is now a retrospective application with the council.

"My concern is that any comments I wish to make about the application at this stage will be meaningless as the development has already taken place.

"I can’t understand why Wrexham Council did not serve an enforcement notice for the work to stop until planning approval was granted. I don’t think any organisation should be allowed to ride roughshod over the democratic process."

Wrexham Council say that any work being completed without permission are done so "entirely at risk". 

Cllr Hugh Jones (Image: NQ)

Cllr Hugh Jones, Lead Member for Planning said “A planning application has been received which seeks permission in retrospect for the current works which are being undertaken at Darland High School. 

“Any works which commence without the necessary planning permission first being secured are done so entirely at risk. 

“This factor will have no bearing on the outcome of the planning application which will be determined solely on its planning merits. 

“On this basis, all representations received from interested parties will be carefully considered before a formal decision is made.”

The club say they continue to have conversations with residents and the council and maintain that the development will have a positive impact in the community.

A spokesperson for Wrexham AFC said: "The club is continuing our proactive conversations with local community leaders and residents regarding the positive impact we seek in the partnership with Darland High School.

"This partnership will develop over 140 children during the year to be better members of the community through education and football, which further supports and enhances their health and wellbeing, while also looking to invest in the school and community by improving existing green space fields and providing community services."

Joanne Lee, headteacher at Darland, said: "We've had lot of interest and positive communications with residents regarding the partnership.

"We've had meetings with Rossett Community Council and we have been working with them. Everyone has been very positive with the partnership and just wanting to know more.

"It's been a great opportunity to meet residents that we possibly wouldn’t have had chance to meet."