Gloucestershire submit floodlight plans

Gloucestershire have applied to Bristol city council for planning permission to erect floodlights at the county ground. The installation of floodlights is part of the club's attempts to secure more international cricket in Bristol and ensure a role in England's hosting of the 2019 World Cup.

Despite making changes to the proposals after a period of consultation, the club could still face opposition from local residents due to fears about light pollution. The floodlights will be able to operate until 11pm and are expected to be used 15 times a year.

"The floodlights are crucial to allow the city to host major international tournaments such as the Cricket World Cup," Will Brown, Gloucestershire's chief executive, said.

"However, it is important that we give local residents a chance to have their say on the proposed plans and they will still be able to comment on the application now it has been submitted. Our exhibition and consultation process gave us a chance to consider their comments prior to submitting our plans to Bristol City Council."

The construction of six permanent, 45-metre pylons is the latest stage in Gloucestershire's £6m redevelopment of their headquarters. Bristol was due to host its first ODI since 2010 during the summer, in front of a refurbished pavilion, but the visit of India was abandoned as a washout.

Having floodlights would also help in staging evening T20 matches. Gloucestershire were forced to begin their Friday fixtures at 5.30pm in last season's revamped NatWest T20 Blast, to ensure games didn't finish in the dark, making it harder for spectators attempting to get to the ground after work.