It is with deep disappointment that I report that the Appeal by our developer, Morbaine, against the refusal of Planning Permission for a retail development on the Mint Bridge site has been turned down by the Planning Inspector. This means that we shall not be moving to a new site at Oxenholme under the current arrangements.

In summary the decision rested on the 'sequential test' with the Canal Head site being judged to be an 'edge of centre' site while the Rugby Club was 'out of town'. The Inspector also decided that the Canal Head development (still without a planning application) would be able to be completed within the 5 year time-frame....that remains to be seen, but the position as far as the Club is concerned is that we have no further options with the current plan and we await Morbaine's decision. Under the conditional contract they have the right to cease any further involvement with the Club and withdraw from the arrangement.

It has taken over 4 years to reach this point and the Club has been in 'limbo' for some time. It is essential that we review the situation and discuss how we can ensure the future of rugby at Mint Bridge. The Board is meeting this week and we would welcome any comments from members. We shall, of course , have the opportunity to discuss matters at the AGM which is on Thursday July 26th.

Stephen Green

Chairman Kendal RUFC