Plans to build a new sports pavilion in St Margarets have received huge backing from residents.

A community non-profit group has proposed to demolish the current pavilion in Moormead Park and replace it with a new, environmentally-friendly pavilion including sports storage, a café and accessible public toilets.

The Moormead Community and Sports Pavilion Charity said it hoped the new building will serve multiple groups such as local schools and churches.

In its vision statement the charity said its plans are supported by St Stephens, St Mary's and Orleans primary schools, Friends of Moormead, the annual St Margarets Fair and many others.

The new one-storey building will replace the disused pavilion currently occupying the site and become accessible to the whole community around Moormead Park.

A decision by Richmond Council on whether to grant planning permission is expected by January 27.

There has been overwhelming public support for the development with 869 comments in favour of the proposal, compared to just 35 against with many noting that public toilets are sorely needed in Moormead Park.

Designs for the new structure have gone through several rounds of public consultations resulting in changes including the colour of the structure's cladding.

The pavilion will not serve league football matches as concerns were raised around the availability of parking in the area.

The charity behind the plans have said their intention is to not commercialise the pavilion and instead have it be financially self-sufficient through profits from the proposed café.

They said: "The proposed development seeks to improve an underutilised site by demolishing existing unsightly building which has been derelict for over a decade. It is the source of much consternation in the community, is a magnet for antisocial behaviour and has been a concern of the police for many years.

"Through extensive community consultation we have honed and amended our proposals to be balanced and harmonious in this wonderful setting.

"We intend for this community space to be a resource and place that everyone can enjoy and promote the use of."