A consultation is getting under way on planning proposals for a 'centre of sporting excellence'.

Proposals for the new centre, which lies to the east of Rowley Lane and to the west of the A1, have now been submitted to Hertmere Borough Council for consideration.

The complex would house an array of sporting facilities including a full-size indoor pitch, medical facilities and a sports hall.

A 300-bedroom four-star hotel, along with a 150-bed hostel for youth teams and schools, would also feature as part of the current outline application.

Plans also include a sports academy, community sports facilities and outdoor grass and artificial pitches along with new access arrangements and parking.

Development plans were unveiled to the public in September in a three-day exhibition, which showed plans from financial services company Legal & General.

Nick Baker, of Legal and General, said: "We are pleased to submit our application for a centre of sporting excellence to Hertsmere Council.  Our centre has been designed to create both a world class learning environment for sport’s elite and to provide facilities that can be used by the community. 

"We are happy that so many people demonstrated their support for our application at the public consultation and I would like to thank everyone who took their time to come to our event."

As part of the consultation, Hertsmere Borough Council is sending letters to residents who live near the site of the proposed development in Rowley Lane, letting them know that a planning application has been received and how they can submit their views.

The council will also be notifying key agencies and service providers such as Hertfordshire County Council, the Highways Agency, town and parish councils and community organisations, including the Elstree and Borehamwood Residents’ Association.

The residents association will discuss the application at its next meeting on Tuesday evening, from 8pm at the Ark Theatre, in Thrift Farm Lane.

Councillor Harvey Cohen, who is responsible for planning and localism, said: "This would represent a significant development for Borehamwood so I'd urge you to have a look at the proposed scheme and let us have your views.

“It is likely that the scheme will be formally considered by the council's Planning Committee in February next year and any views expressed by the public will be taken into account in a report that will be presented at the committee and by councillors determining the application."

To have your say, write to Hertsmere Borough Council Planning Department, Civic Offices, Elstree Way, Borehamwood, WD6 1WA, email consult.planning@hertsmere.gov.uk or call 020 8207 2277.