PLANS for new sports facilities and housing in Sully have received 800 letters of support, it has been claim.

The hybrid application - which was submitted by Sully Sports & Social Club and property developers St Modwen - in July 2015 is for 200 houses, a new clubhouse, and new sport facilities, including grass and all weather football and rugby pitches, a gym and a bowling green.

The sports and social club, which has more than 2000 members, was established in 1962.

But the club is going through "serious financial difficulties" and estimates it may have to fold within two years if a long-term solution cannot be found.

They say the increasing the size and quality of the facilities will solve the issue.

Both the club and the developer also say that the development could create 18 new jobs.

But campaigners against the proposals say there is large scale opposition to the plans among residents.

They also they question the 800 figure quoted in support.

Steve Thomas, chairman of the Saving Sully group said that more than 500 people have signed a petition opposing the housing development.

"This scheme will reduce the sporting facilities at Sully Playing fields by 50 per cent," he said.

"With at least 350 houses having received planning consent at Cog Road, the village actually needs more playing fields not less.

"There are no real improvements to the village infrastructure within this proposal.

"The roads, schools and doctor's surgery are already at capacity.

"The club claims it has 2000 active members, so surely with that number the club should be able to stand alone.

"It needs a proper co-ordinated business plan not a development plan."

But chairman of the sports club, Alwyn Davies, said: "I’ve been involved with Sully Sports Club for over 50 years, as a player, a groundsman and more recently as club chairman.

"We have a fantastic facility here which is very well supported but we just can’t financially afford to keep the club going in its current form, even with our high number of paying members.

"We do not want the local community to lose this club.

"The improvement plans currently on the table will not only invigorate the surrounding area but will ensure the club’s survival for future generations to benefit and enjoy.

"We are greatly encouraged by the level of support in favour of our plans.”

St Modwen's project director, Gareth Scannell said that some of the existing sports and social facilities are in urgent need of repair.

"St. Modwen has a 30 year track record in positive regeneration of local communities and we are already actively involved in over £2.75bn worth of long term regeneration investment elsewhere in south Wales," he added.

"We recognise the importance of encouraging children into sport and we believe that, in conjunction with Sully Sports & Social Club, our development plans provide a viable way to fund the construction of a new clubhouse, all-weather and grass pitches, training area, bowling green and pavilion, a gym, and touring caravan site to secure the club for future generations to enjoy."

The Vale of Glamorgan Council is due to make its decision on the application later this year.