Plans to build two new synthetic hockey pitches with floodlighting and fencing at Reading Cricket and Hockey Club in Berkshire have been approved by Wokingham Borough Council (WBC).

The proposals, which include 12 floodlights measuring 15m (49ft) in height and pitchside team shelters, initially went before WBC planners in October, but were deferred by a month in order to assess traffic and road safety concerns. Plans were approved on the condition that existing boundary hedges and trees were retained, while a traffic management plan will have to be reinforced

However, Sonning Parish Council had objected to the proposals over safety concerns due to the club's proximity to the A4, as well as the potential loss of local sporting facilities including the relocation of Sonning's major cricket team away from the existing cricket pavilion and onto a "second-rate" pitch.