PERSHORE Tennis Club could have five extra courts as well as a new clubhouse, if Wychavon district councillors approve a planning application today.

The club is hoping to build a membrane covered tennis hall with three courts, construct two further outdoor courts and a clubhouse with changing facilities on its base at Pershore Horticultural College. The proposals also include a gravel surfaced parking area for up to 52 cars to replace existing parking spaces, which will be grassed over.

Agent for the club Chris Lowe, of Rose Project Services, said the development would benefit everyone in the Pershore area. "The tennis club has been established at the college since 1998, it is non-profit making with a policy on membership fees that makes it accessible and affordable to all.

"Therefore, it should be seen as a community facility and not as an exclusive club. A community agreement is already in place. Courts are available n a 'pay and play' basis to non-members and this will continue."

The proposal has been supported by Pershore Town Council, although members have indicated that they would like more information about the materials to be used for the buildings and plans for screening the development. Concerns were also raised about road safety at the entrance to the college off the newly-classified B4084.

Wychavon planning officers have recommended that the scheme is approved but like town councillors are requesting further information about landscaping, traffic and building materials. Case officer Caroline Ansell said: "It is considered that when these issues are balanced against the valuable recreational facility the proposal will provide for Pershore the proposal is acceptable."

The council's planning committee is due to rule on the application at its monthly meeting today.