Darlington Rugby Club have submitted plans to the council for a portable first-aid unit by the pitch.

The proposed unit, constructed from shipping containers, will feature a control room on the upper tier and a first-aid room on the lower tier.

A 12.32 square-metre unit will be located on a grassy area next to the main seated stand at Blackwell Meadows, the shared ground for both the rugby and football club.

Its design is intended to blend with the existing stands and is described as modular and portable, aiming to reduce the carbon footprint and facilitate easy assembly.

A planning application was submitted by Jonathan Saddington of Saddington Taylor Planning.

It argues that the proposed development aligns with local and national planning policies, including those supporting improvements to sports facilities and sustainable development.

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A portable structure, the shipping containers are expected to support matchday operations, providing essential services in a compact and efficient manner.

The planning statement for the proposal highlights its alignment with the Darlington Borough Local Plan and national policies, specifically mentioning policies SH 1, ENV 9, and DC 1.

These policies advocate for the enhancement of sports facilities and the promotion of sustainable development.

The site, which is in a flood-risk zone near the River Skerne, has been assessed for flood risk.

A sequential test confirmed no other viable locations and, as a "water-compatible" development, the structure complies with flood risk guidelines.

The planning application is awaiting approval from the council.

Darlington Rugby Club is situated on Grange Road, Darlington, DL1 5NR.